Chiara Corbella Petrillo died on June 13, 2012, at the young age of 28. Yet, those who have told her story recount a young life of joy, hope, and strength that has some calling her another St. Gianna. With Sophia Institute Press’ newly-translated biography, Chiara Corbella Petrillo, so many are learning of this incredible woman of Christ. What is it about this young wife and mother that has inspired such love and fascination? Michael is joined by FOCUS missionary Lisa Cotter to talk about Chiara’s life, her book, and the source of her joy.
After two complicated pregnancies, Chiara and her husband, Enrico, were at first overjoyed to learn that they would have a healthy child that would survive birth. Their happiness was then met with the news that Chiara had developed a tumor and treatment may jeopardize the life of their child. Chiara, out of love for her unborn son, waited until after baby Francesco was safely born. In the months that followed, she would endure intense treatment for her tumor while the souls of both Chiara and Enrico would be tested. Their story is one of faith, hope, and love as lived out in a contemporary family that found the source of their peace and hope in Jesus.
Take a listen to what may be the most inspiring podcast you’ll hear today.
Resources
Lisa Cotter is a writer and speaker who serves, with her husband, FOCUS as part of a missionary family. You can find her writing and speaking information at FOCUS.org.
Lisa can be found on Facebook and Twitter.
You can purchase Chiara Corbella Petrillo: A Witness to Joy through Sophia Institute Press.
Lisa’s article on Chiara can be found here at Catholic Exchange.
K. V. Turley’s review of Chiara Corbella Petrillo is also available here at Catholic Exchange.