Wood Plaque - St. Maria Goretti by B. Nippert

Maria was born in Corinaldo, Italy, into the arms of Assunta and Luigi Goretti who worked as poor share-croppers.   As 11 year old Maria was growing to be virtuous, 20 year old Alessandro Serenelli was indulging in pornography. Maria sat on the stairs sewing when Alessandro grabbed her, determined to rape her. He pulled a knife, but strong-willed Maria kept fighting, assuring him she would rather die than submit. He stabbed her fourteen times. She was rushed to the hospital half dead, and, unbelievably, she was concerned for Alessandro's soul.