Episode 178, From Murder to Mercy: The Redemption of Alessandro Serenelli
Michael Lichens is an author, editor, and researcher with a deep passion for the lesser-known stories of Christian history. He has earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and a master’s degree from the University of Chicago Divinity School. He is the former editor of Catholic Exchange and St. Austin Review, and his work has appeared in numerous Catholic and secular publications. He is also a frequent guest on radio and television programs.
In this episode, we discuss a remarkable and moving book, “I Killed Maria Goretti: The Life and Repentance of Alessandro Serenelli,” by Pietro Di Donato (1911–1992), first published in 1962. In this powerful work, Di Donato shares the true story of Alessandro Serenelli—the young man who murdered St. Maria Goretti—and the profound conversion he underwent later in life. The book is available through Sophia Institute Press.
Sin and conversion
The life of St. Maria Goretti is both heartbreaking and deeply inspiring. Her story is a radiant witness to the mercy of God and the power of forgiveness. Born into a poor Italian family, Maria lived with her widowed mother and siblings on a shared property with the Serenelli family. Alessandro, a troubled young man, developed an unhealthy obsession with Maria and attempted to seduce her on several occasions. Each time, Maria refused, telling him plainly that what he wanted was sinful and not of God.
One day, Alessandro resolved that if she resisted again, he would kill her. When she did, he brutally stabbed her multiple times. Before dying from her injuries, Maria famously said, "I forgive him."
Alessandro was sentenced to 30 years in prison, of which he served 27. During his incarceration, Maria appeared to him in a dream, encouraging him to repent and live a holy life, telling him she wanted him to be with her in Heaven. That vision marked the beginning of a sincere conversion.
A new life
Upon his release, Alessandro eventually sought out Maria’s mother, Assunta. He humbly asked for her forgiveness, and she gave it—saying that if Maria had forgiven him, she must do the same. In one of the most moving moments described in the book, Assunta and Alessandro attended Christmas Mass together. She took his hand and walked with him to receive the Eucharist, united in Christ.
The Church honors Maria Goretti as a virgin martyr, as she gave her life defending her purity and her faith. While Alessandro’s defense attorney had attempted to blame society—pointing to the influence of immoral media and culture—Alessandro himself, after his conversion, accepted full responsibility for his crime.
St. Maria Goretti is now venerated as a patron saint of chastity, purity, and forgiveness. Her legacy lives on as a powerful testament to the grace of God, the beauty of virtue, and the call to extend mercy—even in the most painful of circumstances.
You can follow Michael Lichens’ writings and ongoing projects at mlichens.com.
