To the editor:
The column “Little saint reveals power of forgiveness” in the October 22 issue by Editor Mary C. Uhler is a finely crafted synopsis of the life of St. Maria Goretti.
She also writes about St. Maria’s murderer, Alessandro Serenelli, with real feeling for his experiences after he was arrested, sentenced to prison, and his struggle to repentance and a life of service.
It was a privilege for my husband John and me to serve as part of the honor guard as the relics of St. Maria Goretti were venerated at the church named for her in Madison.
Members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem in the Diocese of Madison volunteered to stand watch during the veneration from 9 a.m. on October 16 to 5:30 a.m. on October 17. October 16 happened to be the birthday of Maria Goretti, who was born on October 16, 1890, in Corinaldo, Italy.
Thousands of people of all ages waited in line at St. Maria Goretti Church to see the relics of this special saint.
I saw much reverence — and even some tears — as young and old alike came forward and touched the casket with their hands and placed Rosaries, prayer cards, pictures, and Bibles on it.
