Saint Gemma Galgani(1878-1903) was born on March 12, 1878, in a small Italian town near Lucca. At a very young age, Gemma developed a love for prayer. She made her First Communion on June 17, 1887. As a pupil at the school run by the Sisters of St. Zita, Gemma was loved by her teachers and her fellow pupils. Although quiet and reserved, she always had a smile for everyone. Although a good student, she had to quit school due to chronic ill health before completing the course of study.

Throughout her life, Gemma was to be favored with many mystical experiences and special graces. These were often misunderstood by others, causing ridicule. Gemma suffered these heartaches in reparation, remembering that Our Lord Himself had been misunderstood and ridiculed.

Gemma had an immense love for the poor, and helped them in any way she could. After her father's death, the nineteen year old Gemma became the mother of her seven brothers and sisters. When some were old enough to share this responsibility, she lived briefly with a married aunt. At this time, two young men proposed marriage to her. Gemma however, wanted silence and retirement, and more that ever, she desired to pray and speak only to God.

Gemma wished to become a nun, but her poor health prevented her from being accepted. She offered this disappointment to God as a sacrifice. (Read more about this amazing woman on Catholic Online)

Gemma is patron saint of Students, Pharmacists, Paratroopers and Parachutists, loss of parents, those suffering back injury or back pain, those suffering with headaches/migraines, those struggling with temptations to impurity and those seeking purity of heart. - See more at: http://www.stgemmagalgani.com/#sthash.IosElOLz.dpuf

The painting measures approximately 11" x 14."

It was painted in acrylics on heavy watercolor paper. "I really felt inspired by the beauty and simplicity of the original photo. Gemma tried to downplay her beauty by wearing only a black dress and simple cross, but this seemed to emphasize her beauty all the more. How beautiful is a chaste lover of Christ!" (Sue Kouma Johnson)

This painting comes with a backing, ready for you to mat and frame. Matting and framing my also be chosen. We will discuss your options and choices through email at suekoumajohnson@gmail.com.

Signed prints of this image are also available.

(C)Copyright Sue Kouma Johnson

This image may not be reproduced in any form without express permission of the artist.