The Life of Saint Gemma Galgani
By Venerable Fr. Germanus, C.P. · Published by TAN Books
Overview
The Life of Saint Gemma Galgani presents the inspiring biography of an Italian mystic and stigmatist who offered her life as a victim soul in profound union with Christ’s Passion, rooted in Catholic tradition and lived with heroic charity and prayer. Written by her spiritual director, Venerable Fr. Germanus, this classic narrative reveals Gemma’s extraordinary mystical experiences, deep devotion to the Sacred Heart, service to the Poor Souls in Purgatory, and her relentless pursuit of holiness despite illness and suffering.
- Classic biography of a canonized Passionist saint whose life exemplifies union with Christ’s sufferings
- Details her mystical experiences, visions, and the reception of the stigmata
- Shows her zealous devotion to souls in purgatory and love for the Sacred Heart
- Written by her spiritual director offering firsthand insight and pastoral depth
- Encourages readers toward deeper prayer, purity of heart, and trust in God amid trials
FAQs
Q: Who was Saint Gemma Galgani?
A: Saint Gemma Galgani was an Italian mystic and stigmatist of the late nineteenth century, known for her deep prayer life, visions, and wholehearted sacrifice offered in union with Christ’s Passion.
Q: Why is this biography notable?
A: It was written by her spiritual director, Venerable Fr. Germanus, who knew her personally and recounts her virtues, mystical graces, and apostolate of prayer and suffering with clarity and reverence.
Q: What themes does this life highlight?
A: It highlights Gemma’s purity, steadfast love for Christ, devotion to the Sacred Heart, care for souls in purgatory, and her embrace of suffering in imitation of Jesus.
Q: Is this suitable for personal formation?
A: Yes, its rich spiritual narrative makes it suitable for personal prayer, meditation, and formation in the imitation of Christ’s love and holiness.
Q: How long did Gemma live?
A: She died at age twenty-five, leaving a legacy of profound holiness and mystical union with Christ’s Passion that continues to inspire the faithful.
Intended Audience
For Catholic readers seeking the inspiring account of a Passionist saint’s life, devotees of the Sacred Heart and mystical spirituality, and anyone desiring encouragement in holiness, prayer, and perseverance grounded in the tradition of the Church.
Key Themes
- Mystical union with Christ’s Passion
- Devotion to the Sacred Heart and souls in purgatory
- Prayer, purity, and victim soul spirituality
- Holiness amid suffering and trials
- Translated by:
- Fr. A.M. O'Sullivan, OSB
- Imprint:
- TAN Books
- Pages:
- 384
- Publication Date:
- 1/1/2004
- Product Format:
- Paperbound
- Height:
- 8.50
- Width:
- 5.50
15 Reviews
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The Life of Saint Gemma Galgani
She is one of my favorites! I loved the book...I learned a lot about her that I did not know before.
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Very inspiring saint
Im over halfway through this book and am blown away by the account of her tremendous virtue, her hum…
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Detailed Bio
This book goes into great detail about the life of St Gemma. The author was a spiritual director to …
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