Gerard Majella

Gerard Majella (1726-1755) was an Italian lay brother of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorists). Born in Muro Lucano, Italy, he displayed profound piety and a fervent desire to serve God from an early age. After attempting to join the Capuchins, he was finally accepted by the Redemptorists, founded by Saint Alphonsus Liguori, in 1749.

He was known for his exemplary obedience, profound humility, and charity towards the poor and sick. Many miracles are attributed to him, including levitation, bilocation, prophecy, and the multiplication of food. His life was marked by an intense union with God and rigorous penances.

Gerard Majella is particularly venerated as the patron saint of expectant mothers and mothers, due to a famous miracle where he saved a pregnant woman from a miscarriage. He is also the protector of children, families, and the falsely accused. He died at only 29 years old, leaving behind a reputation for holiness that quickly spread. He was beatified in 1893 and canonized by Pope Pius X in 1904.