Episode 190: Michael Lichens on Pietro di Donato's I Killed Maria Goretti (July 21, 2025)

In this episode of The Catholic Bookworm, Kiki Latimer interviews Michael Lichens on Pietro di Donato's I Killed Maria Goretti: The Life and Repentance of Alessandro Serenelli (July 21, 2025)“I know I am not worthy of her help, yet she is to me in my darkness of sin what the bright and shining star is to the mariner, for her pardon gives me hope.” — Alessandro SerenelliThrough vivid storytelling, this historical account reveals the disturbing influences and grim motives that possessed Alessandro Serenelli, St. Maria Goretti’s murderer. Yet it is much more than a chilling tale; this true narrative is a testament of transformation and redemption — God’s mercy shining forth through the most seemingly hopeless of situations. Just as great literature and spiritual writing have the power to transform the soul and spur it on to heroic deeds, the force of immoral prose can corrupt and even drive the soul to unspeakable deeds. In part 1 of this book, Pietro Di Donato chronicles Serenelli’s early life and addiction to licentious and anarchical publications. In part 2, Serenelli’s harrowing journey unfolds, culminating in his crime against Maria, the young girl who chose purity and forgiveness over despair. This stunning story brings to life Serenelli’s long imprisonment, his struggles with guilt, and the redemption he experienced through Maria’s saintly intercession. In the gripping pages of this classic, you will find: How unchecked passions and sins of the mind often lead to sins of the fleshReminders that the light of grace is ever present, especially in your darkest momentsHeroic forgiveness, even from Maria’s family, for Alessandro’s heinous crimeThe healing power of God’s infinite mercy, even for the most hardened sinnersHow the intercession of a saint in your life can help you attain salvationAlessandro’s story is not just a reflection on his ultimate repentance but an inspiring witness to the power of faith and the redemptive love of Christ. Ideal for those seeking conversion, spiritual renewal, or a deeper understanding of reconciliation, this narrative is a beacon of hope for believers and nonbelievers alike​​. In constructing this searing account, Di Donato recounts his meetings with St. Maria’s sister Ersilia, friars who lived with Serenelli during the later part of his life, and Serenelli himself. Discussion questions are also included for personal and group reflection.I Killed Maria Goretti - Sophia Institute Press