"Maria Goretti followed in the footsteps of the young martyrs of early Christianity who gave their lives to defend their purity. (...) Keep the testimony of Saint Maria Goretti constantly before your eyes. As a model of martyrdom, little Maria, after bringing her murderer to the path of Christian virtue, continues to help all those who are ready to accept the Gospel with its strict but liberating moral demands. In particular, she encourages you, dear children and young people. Little Maria offers new strength to all who, in the struggle, turn against evil and direct themselves toward goodness, trust, and longing for Christ."