Saint Gianna Molla summary

Early Life and Career

In Saint Gianna Molla by Pietro Molla, we are introduced to Gianna Beretta, the woman who would later be canonized as Saint Gianna Molla. Born in 1922 in Magenta, Italy, she was the tenth of thirteen children in a devout Catholic family. Gianna was a bright student and excelled in her studies, particularly in the field of medicine.

Following her graduation from the University of Pavia in 1949, Gianna opened a clinic in Mesero, a small town near Milan. She was known for her compassionate care and her dedication to her patients, especially those in need. Although she was a skilled pediatrician, she also specialized in prenatal care and was a strong advocate for the sanctity of life.

Faith and Family

Gianna's deep faith was central to her life. She was a member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, a Catholic organization dedicated to serving the poor, and she regularly attended Mass and received the sacraments. In 1955, she married Pietro Molla, an engineer, and the couple soon welcomed their first child, Pierluigi. Despite her busy medical practice, Gianna was a devoted wife and mother, and she made sure to instill her Catholic values in her children.

During this time, Gianna discovered that she had a uterine fibroma, a benign tumor. She was advised to undergo a hysterectomy, which would have ensured her survival, but she refused, choosing instead to have the tumor removed in a way that would preserve her ability to have more children. This decision would later have profound implications for her life.

The Pregnancy and Sacrifice

While pregnant with her fourth child in 1961, Gianna developed a fibroma on her uterus. The doctors advised her to have an abortion or a hysterectomy, but she refused, opting instead for the removal of only the fibroma. She knew that this decision would likely cost her life, but she was determined to save her unborn child, who she named Gianna Emanuela.

After the surgery, Gianna faced numerous complications, including severe pain and infection. Despite her suffering, she remained joyful and continued to express her love and concern for her family. She passed away on April 28, 1962, at the age of 39, one week after giving birth to her daughter. Her selfless sacrifice and unwavering dedication to the sanctity of life left a lasting impact on those who knew her.

Legacy and Canonization

Gianna Molla's story did not end with her death. Her daughter, Gianna Emanuela, went on to become a doctor, following in her mother's footsteps. She has worked tirelessly to promote her mother's legacy and to share her inspiring story with the world.

In 2004, Pope John Paul II canonized Gianna Molla as a saint of the Catholic Church. She was hailed as a modern-day martyr, a woman who sacrificed her life for the sake of her child. Her example continues to inspire countless individuals, especially women, to embrace the sanctity of life and to live their faith with courage and love.

In Saint Gianna Molla, Pietro Molla not only shares his wife's extraordinary life, but also his own deep love and admiration for her. He presents a woman who, through her faith, love, and self-sacrifice, became a shining example of Christian virtue and a source of inspiration for generations to come.