TODAY'S SAINT (Gorgonia)

GORGONIA

(d. ca. 370-373)

Daughter of SS. Gregory of Nazianzus and Nonna,

sister of SS. Gregory of Nazianzus the youngcaesarius

Most of what is known about Gorgonia comes from the eloquent funeral oration for her delivered by Gregory of Nazianzus the Younger. Gregory described her as a model of piety and morals who was generous to the poor. She was married and had children, and the sole wealth she left them was "the imitation of her example, and emulation of her merits."

Gregory described how on more than one occasion she was remarkably healed by her intense faith. Once her mules went wild with her carriage and overturned it. She was dragged and so badly injured that others thought she would die. She refused all medical help and relied upon the will of God. On another occasion, she fell seriously ill with "an extraordinary and malignant disease" that left her fevered, paralyzed and even comatose. From this she seemingly miraculously recovered.

Gorgonia was told by God when she would die. She made her preparations, went to bed, and passed away, surrounded by her family and friends. Her last words were, "I will lay me down in peace, and take my rest."

Feast: December 9

FURTHER READING

"Gregory Nazianzus: On His Sister Gorgonia

URL: www.fordham.edu/halsall/basis/gregnaz-gornogia.html

Downloaded: September 24, 2000.