Saint Gerard Majella

Biography

Saint Gerard Majella, also known as Geraldo Magela or Gerardo Maiella, was born on April 23, 1725, in the town of Muro, Italy. He was the son of a tailor who unfortunately passed away when Gerard was just 12 years old. This left the family in a state of poverty, struggling to make ends meet. From a young age, Gerard displayed a deep devotion to God and a desire to serve Him. He entered the Capuchin order, aspiring to become a friar, but his fragile health prevented him from pursuing this path. However, Gerard's strong faith and determination led him to explore other opportunities to serve the Church. Eventually, Gerard was accepted into the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Redemptorists, as a lay brother. Within the congregation, he fulfilled various roles such as sacristan, gardener, porter, infirmarian, and tailor. His dedication and humility in carrying out these duties earned him the reputation of a holy and devout man. Saint Gerard's innate goodness and strong spirit of faith were evident in the miracles associated with him. One notable incident is when a pregnant woman falsely accused him of being the father of her child. Rather than defending himself, Gerard chose to retreat into silence, placing his trust in God. Eventually, the woman recanted her accusation, clearing Gerard's name. This incident led to his association as the patron saint of all aspects of pregnancy, childbirth, and expectant mothers. It is also believed that Saint Gerard had the ability to bilocate, being in two places at once, and that he had the gift of reading consciences. These remarkable spiritual gifts only added to his reputation as a miracle worker and saintly figure. Saint Gerard Majella's last will consisted of a simple note placed on the door of his cell, which read, "Here the will of God is done, as God wills, and as long as God wills." This humble acceptance of God's plan for his life reflects his deep trust and surrender to divine providence. On October 16, 1755, at the young age of 30, Gerard succumbed to tuberculosis in Caposele, Campania, Italy. He was laid to rest in the Basilica di San Gerardo Maiella in Materdomini Caposele. In recognition of his holiness and miraculous intercessions, Pope Leo XIII beatified Gerard on January 29, 1893, and Pope Saint Pius X canonized him on December 11, 1904. Saint Gerard Majella is venerated as the patron saint of childbirth, children, expectant mothers, falsely accused people, good confessions, lay brothers, motherhood, and pregnant women. He is also the patron of the pro-life movement and unborn children. In addition to his universal patronage, he holds a special place of devotion and honor among Catholics in Brazil, particularly in the regions of Central de Minas, Crucilândia, Inconfidentes, Japonvar, São Geraldo da Piedade, and São Geraldo do Baixio. Similarly, Saint Gerard is revered in Italy, particularly in the regions of Basilicata, Corato, and Muro. Saint Gerard Majella's life serves as an inspiration to all believers, emphasizing the importance of faith, humility, and willingness to serve God in whatever capacity we find ourselves.