ON BL. GERARDESCA OF PISA, TERTIARY OF THE CAMALDOLESE ORDER.
ABOUT MCCXL
PRELIMINARY COMMENTARY.
Her memory almost faded, whence and how here restored.
Gerardesca of Pisa, Tertiary of the Camaldolese Order (B.)
D. P.
[1] The Equestrian Order, under the name and invocation of St. Stephen the Pope and Martyr, in the year MDLXI, by Cosimo de' Medici instituted; and by his successors, the Grand Dukes of Tuscany, increased with many rights and estates; by the favor of Duke Ferdinand and the authority of Pope Pius IV, possesses among other things the most ancient church of St. Savinus at Pisa, [The church of St. Savinus translated from the Camaldolese to the Knights of St. Stephen,] which repeating its origin from Charles King of the Lombards, seems to ascend up to the VIII century, when scarcely another can be understood by that name, than he who from his deeds surnamed the Great, before the title of Roman Emperor wrote himself King of the Franks and Lombards. But there is found in old parchments the foundation or dedication ascribed to the sixth day before the Kalends of May, Indiction III. The monastery anciently joined to this, but that it was of Black Monks, we cannot doubt: but when the Camaldolese were introduced there, under the Rule of St. Benedict, but in a white habit serving, St. Romuald the Abbot being the institutor, it is not easy to divine. They flourished there, both in discipline and number, before the middle of the XIII century, when of the same profession and Order the habit and title received St. Gerardesca; Bl. Gerardesca, having dwelt near it, her husband, with whom for some years she had lived Christianly, being persuaded there to act as a Monk; she herself living in a cell or house near the monastery, not as a Recluse, but as a Tertiary; inasmuch as she had a maidservant with her for ministry, and at her own arbitration now these now those churches she visited, to which the opportunity of the festivities occurring through the year invited her.
[2] and the memory of her buried in it Her body, buried in the same church, but that even now it rests there, no one of the Pisans doubts, although the place is unknown; because wars between the Florentines and Pisans raging all things were overthrown; and at length, the Lords being changed, that church too changed its whole face, no vestiges of the old monuments and titles being left there in the pavement, walls, or columns. Nonetheless some Relics of the same Bl. Gerardesca, are said to be held in veneration among certain Nuns, concerning which I would wish to be more distinctly taught. is renewed from her image elsewhere, The only indication of ancient and public cult remains in a wooden panel, at the high altar of St. Michael in the Borgo of the Pisan city, namely an image, among other Saints of the Camaldolese Order, depicted. Meanwhile the year and day of her death lie hidden: that also the Acts of her life long lay hidden, is gathered from the silence of Razzi and Ferrari concerning Gerardesca. But those, only mutilated, an ancient codex at length exhibits, of the Lives of various Saints men and women, more than four hundred years ago written on parchments, and kept among the Nuns of St. Silvester. There not only through the course of her Life itself certain torn-out pages are wanting; but the last part is absent, and perhaps the greater, certainly pertaining more to history; from which we could have learned something more certain, of the day of her death, and the public veneration of the Pisan people that followed it, or even of the miracles wrought at her invocation or tomb, by which the title and cult of a Saint, at least as Blessed, she merited, from an old MS. with the title of Saint. just as in the surviving part a hundred times and a hundred times she is called, as also in the title prefixed in these words: Here begins the history or life of St. Gerardesca, of the Pisan city, who at the monastery of St. Savinus rests.
[3] This Life, such as he found it, such with his own hand he described for us, the same, from the Life communicated by Francesco Ceffini. who instructed us about the fortune of the church of St. Savinus above mentioned, the most Illustrious Lord Francesco Maria Ceffini of Florence, Knight of St. Stephen, and in the Pisan Lyceum from the first Chair Professor of Civil law; the same who for August XVII from the same Codex likewise transcribed for us the Life of St. Rayner of Pisa, in an almost like style written in the year MCLXI. Yet it matters that the Life of St. Rayner is interpolated with frequent titles, this runs in a continuous thread. But lest the same Author could seem, a longer interval of time stands in the way, She is younger than Bl. Bona, elapsed between the aforenoted year and the death of Bl. Gerardesca. For she died after Bl. Bona, who died in the year MCCVII, as appears from number 47: and indeed so long after, that she does not seem to have known the same living more familiarly, and so was not contemporary with her. But contemporary she had the Venerable Villana, of whose coming to Gerardesca mention is made in the last fragment of the Life, number 68: but at the beginning of the page, in another character, thus is added: Note that this Lady Villana, and of the Venerable Villana, her contemporary, she died about the year 1240: a woman of wonderful virtues, of whom here mention is made, was the grandmother of John de Cinquinis, father of the Brothers Bartholomew, James, and Francesco Cinquini, Friars Preachers. And yet, subjoins Ceffini, I find in a certain parchment Chronicle of the Friars Preachers, compiled by Fr. Dominic de Peccioli, who died in the year MCCCCIX, that Fr. Bartholomew de Cinquinis flourished in the year MCCCXXXIII: so that his great-grandmother could have lived to the middle of the XIII century, and Bl. Gerardesca at least ought to have reached about the year MCCXL.
[4] About this year also, in the very original codex, all the aforesaid Lives some Monk of San Savino could have written, and to the same at the end appended the Life of Bl. Gerardesca, in that order in which he had received and noted her marvels, after whom the Life was written by her Confessor, the very Writer and likewise Confessor of the Blessed, or another diverse from the writer of the Codex, yet the spiritual Father of the same Blessed, and conscious of all her secrets and a partaker of the graces, obtained (as he speaks) for a certain Religious; not wishing namely to name himself. For the rest this Life lacks those historical lights of chronotactic notes and illustrious persons, named by name, by which others more accurately written are wont to shine: and although there mention is made, number 22, of a certain Urban, formerly Abbot of St. Savinus; and number 27, of Lord Deodatus a Monk of St. James del Poggio; and number 43 of Fr. Peter; and again number 54, of Gregory Abbot of the monastery of St. Michael of the Discalced, to whom a little before he died the Blessed confessed: since however these are not had known from elsewhere, nor is found the Chronicle of that monastery, no help from those names can we have.
[5] full of heavenly visions, But as this Life lacks those lights, so it abounds with revelations and ecstatic visions, sometimes such, that, considering the genius of this more malignant age, I have doubted whether it would be expedient to bring more of them into the light; those especially, in which the situation and form of the heavenly Jerusalem, and its citadels, mountains, palaces, streets, rivers, ornament, feasts, and joys are expressed, so materially, that the delicate ears of some seem rather to be offended, than salutarily excited to the desire of supernal things. But when I consider the Apocalypse of St. John the Evangelist, of whom here most frequent mention, without doubt full of divine mysteries; yet in a like style and manner explained; I judge it will be, that souls founded in true humility, and wont to feel of the sayings and doings of the Saints men and women in goodness and simplicity of spirit, not unlike the Apocalypse of John. may be faithfully edified. Yet I would wish in reading these the reader to remember that Parergon, which I interposed in the Lives of St. Mary Magdalene de' Pazzi: because by it I believe a reader is sufficiently to be forearmed, however critical and fastidious.
[6] If I had had any hope, either of obtaining her Life sometime entire, or of eliciting from somewhere more certain notices of this Blessed one, now almost worn out from the memories of men; I would have wished to defer all things to another time. But I understand all the other copies of the same Life, more recently transcribed from the same Codex, to be found defective everywhere in the same places; which is a sign that the loss is sufficiently ancient, why she is given on this day. nor probably reparable. Wherefore it has seemed most fitting, after the Life of Bl. Bona, to set this of Gerardesca, on account of her glory among the Saints revealed to this one, and the much similitude between the two, and the proximity of place and time; to this end at least, that there perish not wholly, what now for the greater part is lost. But who knows, whether not, occasion being taken hence, whence less is hoped, something of more certain knowledge is to be brought out?
THE LIFE
Probably collected by her Confessor,
From an Old MS. of the Monastery of St. Silvester at Pisa.
Gerardesca of Pisa, Tertiary of the Camaldolese Order (B.)
BHL Number: 3421
FROM A MS.
CHAPTER I.
The pious marriage of Gerardesca: the receiving of the monastic habit, the first beginnings of divine revelations.
There was a certain woman in these days in the Pisan parts a holy woman, by name Gerardesca, near the monastery of St. Savinus, and of the same Profession and Order. Having entered a monastery at seven years, To the oppressed compassionate, to the afflicted she was merciful; fervent in charity, imbued with all virtues; meek and fearing God. For in her girlish years, before she attained the end of the seventh, taught to fear the Lord, and loathing the delights of her parents, she fled to a certain monastery, and there for the whole time of her life to serve the Lord she disposed. At length while there for some time she stayed, and her mother for her grieved very vehemently; induced by maternal sorrows, as one who had not yet come to maturity of age, at the voice of her mother simply from the monastery she went out. And when through
some time she stayed with her mother, subject in all things to her will; to her, wishing to deliver her into marital wedlock, she did not deny assent; and thence led out and given in marriage, nay as a sheep before the shearer growing dumb, inasmuch as ignorant of this world, into so great perils not of her own will and into the pleasures of marriage she immersed herself.
[2] But after she considered herself prolonged from the services of Jesus Christ, and involved in secular cares; she began most vehemently to be saddened, that she was destitute of the most sweet joy. But, because the just man lives by faith, believing that even in marital union she might please the Lord, even thus she serves God more earnestly she began continually to macerate her body with fastings and prayers; and so it came about that daily she neither ate nor drank, until in the church with six hundred genuflections she had with tears prayed the Lord. For she was diligent in prayers, fervent in fastings, and that she might always be able to be present at the sacred mysteries not remiss. What more? So in the world she remained, to the world now dead, that not even a little in worldly delights did she rejoice. For now made a ladder of paradise, she gave forth in herself examples of all good works. For she was taught by the Lord not to hide her good works under a bushel, but to set them upon a candlestick, by good example to others. that thence our heavenly Father who is in the heavens might be praised. Therefore while this Saint remained in the world with her husband, made as a heifer of Ephraim taught to love threshing, she ever bore in mind what she did not yet bear in habit.
[3] And when she could not receive offspring from her husband, her mother continually prayed the Lord, To her receiving no offspring that to her daughter a son might be given; in whom the divine clemency could be praised together, creating all things from nothing, and calling those things which are not as those which are. But because the Lord had now chosen her for His own, He appeared to the mother, in dreams speaking and saying to her: Since you desire your daughter to receive offspring from her husband, that your devout petition may be fulfilled, for her son I give John the Evangelist. And straightway at that same hour the Lord delivered to her sage, and savin a, and the over-sea plant b. O with how great festivities now the Saint could rejoice! O with how great gladness exult! who when she perceives the petition of her mother fulfilled from the mouth of the Most High, takes a son grown, who would rather guard the nurse, than the nurse support him. Whence it came about, that as Bl. John received the Virgin into his own at the Lord's death, so to this Saint from then he would lend his patronage. And when her mother rose from sleep stupefied, nor could contain herself for joy; to her neighbors outside she went, carrying in her hand the aforesaid herbs, which the Lord in sign of love had left her, as to her at least it seemed. for a son is given St. John the Evangelist. In which deed indeed the Lord indignant, with so great power struck the said herbs from her hands, that her hand and arm being wounded with fistulas, for two years (after which to her health by divine clemency returned) she remained infirm.
[4] At length, since the Saint continually longed in great affections, the world and its enticements being cast behind, in some monastery in the services of Jesus Christ to lead her life (for she did not believe that in the world life eternal could be merited) with fervent zeal she began to admonish her husband, that together with her leaving the transitory things of this world, the fruit of a better life in a monastery they should take, Her husband being persuaded to become a monk at St. Savinus, and then obtain the participation and glory of the heavenly kingdom. And so it came about, that, since she ever persisted in admonishing her husband, her husband, inasmuch as taking the better part, to his wife's so pious will gave his assent and consent. The holy woman therefore fearing lest the holy purpose of her husband should be changed, since every age is prone from its adolescence to evil; hastily undertook the journey to the monastery of St. Savinus, where at the same time was an Abbot a man of venerable life, near to that Saint in degree of kinship. Who when he had heard from the holy woman, that she wished to assume the habit of the same monastery with her husband, because he ever fostered them in the bowels of Jesus Christ, she dwelling near it takes the habit too, straightway the sacred company of Monks of that monastery being summoned, by the common and eager consent of the Brothers and his own, to the said aforementioned Lady and her husband gave the habit of holy Religion: and them in his sacred arms benignly receiving, thenceforth began to treat them as spiritual children.
[5] But the holy woman, after she perceived herself adorned with the holy garments; as if in all things she abounded with delights, glad and cheerful began to give thanks to God, who does not abandon those hoping in Him. Straightway therefore there was given her outside the monastery a little cell, where continually praising the Lord, with all the powers of body she clung to the divine services. A wonderful thing indeed, and from the age unheard of! She, while in the world she remained, never cheerful, never glad was seen: thenceforth ever cheerful and fervent in spirit. but after she received the habit of holy Religion, taking gladness from Religion, with so great alacrity she began to be filled, and to exult with so great joy, that her face and eyes, as if never about to see sadness, shone with infinite alacrity. And furthermore, when she began to stay in her oratory, profiting from virtue to virtue, the grace of the Holy Spirit, which even in the world she had possessed, in that oratory she more abundantly exhaled.
[6] On a certain day therefore, when the mother of Bl. Gerardesca had come to her, Before her mother she suffers an ecstasy: that she might rejoice in the sight of her; she, while she would not trouble her mother, nor desist from her accustomed contemplation, going out of her little cell, went out to pray into the garden. And when there devoutly in prayer she remained, there appeared to her a certain golden eagle, coming toward her. Which when it had approached the Saint, so struck the Saint in the breast, that as if dead it prostrated her to the ground. And when her mother had gone out into the garden, to see what she did; and found her as if extinct, with tears she carried her into the house. But the Saint a little after coming to herself, began the Most High with full exultations to praise…
[7] A heavenly concert being heard When on a certain day Bl. Gerardesca more early than usual remained in prayer, she heard the voices of those singing in heaven and praises resounding to the Lord. Who when she had opened the window of her little cell, if she could see anything in heaven, straightway that singing pressed down in silence grew silent. But when the aforesaid Lady believed this kind of silence to have happened on her occasion, forthwith weeping bitterly, she began to say within herself; I am not worthy to contemplate so most sweet a joy. These things therefore she saying, three doves appeared in the oratory, having aery wings, and stars on their forehead, and golden crowns on their head, and white breasts adorned with crystalline stones. And spreading their wings on either side, secretly they remained for three continuous days and nights. And so when the fourth light shone, there appeared in the same oratory a certain eagle, clad in a certain cope, having a golden crown and on its neck a golden thurible, and five stars on its forehead, and also a certain golden book it carried on its breast. And when the Saint had beheld the stars, which stood on the eagle's forehead, and the Lord being seen, she attested that she saw the whole triumph and joys of eternal life. And straightway there appeared a certain royal throne, which was placed upon the back of the eagle, and the Lord came, and sat: and there was with Him Bl. Mary the Virgin and Bl. John the Evangelist. But St. Gerardesca all these things attentively kept, conferring in her heart.
[8] When therefore there was a certain Religious, whom this Lady loved, she obtains the name of a monk dear to her to be inscribed in the book of life; who desired to contemplate the divine mysteries; at the prayers of the blessed Virgin the said Religious was presented before the Lord. And when Bl. John the Baptist and Bl. John the Evangelist led the Religious before the divine presence; they took the cope from the back of the eagle, and gave it to the blessed Virgin: who clothing the said Religious with the same mantle, presented him before the majesty of the Lord. But the Lord taking away the crown from the head of the eagle, set it on the head of the Religious, and commanded Bl. John the Evangelist, that he should take the book from the breast of the eagle, and write his name in the book of life. And when Bl. John had fulfilled the command of God, he showed the writing to St. Gerardesca. Which when the Saint had seen, and recognized the aforesaid Religious, she exulted with great joy. Moreover there remained there the Lord for three days, the darkness of night being wholly driven far off.
[9] After these things the Saint went with the Lord into the desert, and there remained for seven days and nights. Then, and having accompanied the Lord through the desert to heaven, whether in the body, or out of it, God knows, with full vision she beheld; how the Lord stood there, fasting forty days and nights. And she saw how the Lord, praying and weeping, Angels coming oftener comforted: and how the Lord went up, with flesh and without flesh, to the Father, asking Him that the cup of death might pass from Him. After these things the Lord sent her a golden ring, having in it written letters, which said: This ring I give you for a pledge, since the things you have seen and heard concerning the Religious shall not pass until they be done: and the Saint bound that ring on her neck, that she might show it to the said Religious. These things being thus performed, Bl. Gerardesca went with the Lord into eternal life: she sees a mansion prepared for the same monk, and the Lord ordained a procession, with the blessed Virgin and the whole heavenly Court, outside the city of Jerusalem, where there were two Angels, hewing precious stones. And when the Saint asked about that work, thus it was answered her: This ought to be the house of your Religious. And straightway He commanded in the place of that Religious an Angel to be prepared. Then Bl. John said to the Saint, The ring, which you have, ought to be taken from you by another c, who loves him more than you. The Saint therefore troubled thereupon said, Who is she?…
[10] … The beginning of the vision is wanting, of the soul of the same deceased Religious, and his soul after judgment led to judgment by demons, as far indeed as from what follows is gathered. But Blessed John said: You have nothing against her: go therefore, and let her free. But that soul stood before them, struck with great fear, and as if from strong perils had not yet received itself into the camp of security. And the following day, while still all things, which had been done concerning that soul, were before the eyes of the Saint; the Saint suppliantly asked, that this kind of vision being put away, she might deign to be freed from the sight of the demons. Forthwith her spirit was rapt, and
was in a certain house, fair with comely beauty, in which indeed was Bl. Michael with the soul of the aforesaid deceased, wearied with the greatest afflictions. And when there were in that house very many chambers, adorned with most beautiful ornaments, and the Saint wondered at the beauty of the lodging here and there; suddenly Bl. Michael departed from the place, there straightway approaching on the way Bl. John the Evangelist, St. Savinus d, and also Bl. Martin. Then addressing her, Bl. Martin in the same to be received. said: Since this deceased one had great devotion and bore full faith in Bl. John the Evangelist, Bl. John has not forgotten him, but asked God for him, and diligently poured forth prayers: and the Lord gave him most full power, up to the third day to wipe away the penalties which he merited; and on the very feast of the Annunciation of Bl. Mary, which was to be on the last day of those three, to bring him to everlasting rest. And so the aforesaid feast coming, that deceased one stripped of all penalties whatever, was placed before the eyes of the Saint in one of those chambers, which before the blessed woman, as has been said, thus adorned had beheld.
[11] There is shown her the Annunciation of the Bl. Virgin. After these things came Bl. John the Evangelist, and spoke to her saying: Do you wish to see the house, in which the glorious Virgin was saluted by the Angel? The Saint said, Yes, holy Father. And coming with Bl. John to that house, they found in it our Lady, in garments and age disposed, just as she was when she received the word of salutation: how also she was leaning upon a certain column, remaining in devout prayer. She saw all things one by one, which then were done by the blessed Angel and Mary.
[12] On a certain night, when with great revolutions of mind the Saint thought, how great and of what kind was the divine power; in a moment to the church of St. Peter e to the steps she was borne, which church indeed is distant four miles from the Pisan city. And when there she remained beset with great stupor, she saw a great multitude of people staying round about: of which sudden vision the sight greatly terrified her. and the future consummation of the world. And someone came to her saying: You will have in this vision no slight disturbance, and by the sharpness of terror your mind will in some way be crushed. And straightway the heavens were opened, and fire going forth from them seemed to consume the whole surface of the earth, as it will happen at the end of the world. Then the Saint saw herself dead, and her soul trembling beheld the body, an inaudible din of peoples resounding everywhere. But there appeared to her Bl. Peter the Apostle saying; I am he who a little before spoke to you, and you have seen how this world ought to be consummated. But you ought not yet to die. Then the Saint asked of him saying; Are the men of this age still dead? But he answered: By no means. And straightway the Saint, restored to bodily integrity, for many days afterward was seized with fear, and disturbed with many temptations.
ANNOTATIONS.
CHAPTER II.
Favors divinely obtained by the Blessed for others, the well and the sick, and visions intermixed with them.
[13] On the feast of Bl. John the Evangelist there was a certain Lady, Theodesca by name, a Pisan citizen, Praying before a friend she is raised into the air. in the church of St. James del Poggio, which is outside the Pisan city, with Bl. Gerardesca. And when the Saint prayed, she stood in the air about ten cubits raised. Then that woman rising trembling, when she saw the Saint raised up singing in sweet song after the manner of the Angels, began with great gladness within herself to say: Truly today with the Saint I shall be in Paradise, a partaker of the kingdom of God. And when amid these things the bell was rung for the Matin Hour, and the Saint returned to her place had risen from prayer; that woman by no means attempted to inquire of the Saint about the aforesaid things. Again when the aforesaid Theodesca had a son over the sea, and that son of hers came to the Pisan port, and a certain daughter of hers had died; she stood saying, having heard of her son's coming: Lord God, she absent knows her complaints concerning her daughter's death. if my daughter still lived, now with my daughter and him I would obtain full joy. O Lord, why has this pleased You? And straightway it was revealed to St. Gerardesca, that the said woman had thus complained, and that her son a great tempest having arisen in the sea had dreaded drowning. And when she went to the Saint, that she might rejoice with her over the coming of her son, and that son of hers came with her; the Saint narrated to them all things, with no slight stupor of the hearers, as has been said above, on account of which they with living voices praised the Lord Jesus Christ.
[14] On a certain night, on the feast of All Saints, the Saint was in the church of St. Savinus, that she might hear there Matins: and behold a certain eagle visibly appeared to her, having on its head a golden crown, She sees the Saints at the reading of the Gospel lay down their crowns, and in its mouth a certain little branch, in which were birds, which composed the most sweet differences of voices. But the said eagle flew through the whole church, resting upon the heads of certain worthy ones, staying there. And when the Gospel was said, the Saint saw the heavens opened, and the Saints standing with crowns laid down, on account of reverence for the Gospel. From then therefore the Saint judged, that while the Gospel on earth is sung, the crowns of the Saints with reverence are laid down.
[15] But when on a certain night she was held by a grave infirmity, and watched in her little bed; behold a certain hand stood under her head, and she heard some conversing on the side. The conversation being perceived, turning to the side, she saw the blessed Virgin, St. Catharine, St. John the Evangelist, and St. Paul the Apostle: but Bl. Catharine had in her hands branches of olives with palms. The holy ones too John and Paul, going to the Saint, lifted her from her little bed, that she might do reverence to our Lady. But the glorious Virgin said to the Saints John and Paul, Lead hither such Religious. And they went, and led with them those, of whom the blessed Virgin had spoken to them. And our Lady said also to Bl. John: Take those branches, and give to each of the Religious a branch. and the Mother of God to receive the Religious commended by her. And when this was done, the blessed Virgin held his hand, as if she held it out, those always kissing the hands of our Lady. But when Bl. Paul had two crowns in his hands, he said to her; Lady, You see to it. Soon Bl. Mary said, Take from her the ring, because it is better for her not to have it, on account of the devil and the smoke of vain glory: but I wish to store it away for her, until the day of her death. And straightway the ring was taken from her, and turning herself, she said: Truly all things, which I have heard and seen, are true.
[16] On a certain night also, when St. Gerardesca was called by someone that she should go with him; forthwith from her bed she rose, and with him undertook the journey: and going together they came to a place, In a vision led to Purgatory, which was tripartite into three paths. When therefore they had begun to go by one of those paths, they found two rivers, by which the aforesaid path was walled on either side; which rivers indeed contained very many demons and serpents: but the demons too, barking like dogs, eagerly sought to seize the souls passing by. The second path too on one side had a river, and on the other was a precipitous cliff, exceedingly perilous and deep. But the third path had on one part a river, and on the other gardens, exceedingly beautiful and famous for dignity, which no one could number. Therefore by the path, which directed to the middle, they saw souls crossing and going to Purgatory. And so while they crossed by such a way, behold four winds blew, shaking it so strongly, that scarcely could she keep herself on her feet. But the aforesaid guide, seeing that the Saint's frailty was greatly shaken by the winds, a certain staff being held out to her, through various terrors, said: Take this staff, and oppose it to the winds, that they may not be able to harm you. Furthermore when the Saint had taken the staff, straightway the winds ceasing inflicted no trouble on her. After these things coming by the way, where was (as has been said) a very great cliff, they came to a place exceedingly horrible, which was called hell.
[17] And while the Saint scarcely could keep herself there upon her feet, she learns what solace is given there to souls. on account of the horrible blasts of the winds and infinite perils; yet passing through the midst of Hell without injury, although she was terrified in the vision of the penalties, she saw at the head of a certain way Purgatory. But the Saint approaching Purgatory, and speaking with those who were there, asked diligently of them, by whom they were visited, whether by the blessed Virgin, or by Bl. John the Evangelist. Who forthwith answering said; The Lord visits us once a month, and then we sustain no torment. But since the soul of a certain one, who many diverse and foul sins had committed in the world, lately came hither, about to suffer great and diverse punishments, the Lord now for as it were forty days elapsed has not come to visit us. Yet when He comes, He shows us at His return mercy, leading with Him the souls which have been purged into eternal life. Then these things being thus said soon came Angels and very many Saints and raised three banners, one of which had a Cross, and another an image […] and the third an image […] of an Angel contained. The Saints therefore standing in Purgatory, and how fornicating Religious are punished. the Angels too entering, the holy souls with greatest praises bore away into Paradise. And he who had led the Saint, all the things which had been seen relating and setting forth, said: The souls which committed grave and horrible things in the world, most gravely offending the Lord, are condemned to infernal penalties: among which remain the souls of some Religious, who had sons or daughters in the world, and therefore demons holding serpents struck them. And straightway the Saint saw the sons of the Religious coming forth, [who], as quarreling and reproaching, reported the intolerable penalties which they suffered upon their fathers.
[18] Therefore these things being thus performed and seen in order, he who led the Saint said to her; You must still go on with me, that your ears may hear and your eyes see, the things which are to come. And he led her into a valley not small, where were innumerable bones of the dead, She sees also the resurrection of the dead and Angels and demons standing, and separating bones from bones, namely the bones of the elect from the damned. She saw also how the elect rejoiced, and the condemned were saddened and murmured to one another. And straightway came the Lord with great fury and wrath, and the Angels and Saints with Him, fearing and trembling. And behold a certain Angel came, carrying in his hand a kindled torch; and striking the earth with it, consumed all things which are under heaven. But the elect seeing that both the waters and the mountains were consumed, began together with one mouth the name of the Most High with ineffable praises to praise. and the judgment. And straightway rising, they heard the voice of the Lord saying, Come blessed, and, Go cursed. And so it was done: and the just went, rejoicing and exulting, from the sight of the Lord into eternal life; but the damned, groaning and howling, into everlasting punishment.
[19] After these things the said Lady, returned into the world, when she had seen herself sequestered from so great divine mysteries, Hence restored to herself, which before she had seen, began most vehemently to be saddened; whence it came about that from exceeding grief as if dead languishing she remained. And when her mother, going to her, had found her as if dried up on one side, with her whole household she bitterly wept, and with loud voices wailed; so indeed that the neighbors hearing this, rose hastily at their cry. Meanwhile this Lady, as if from the slumber of sleep stupefied rising, began all the offenses of her mother in order to express, which in her life she had committed. But her mother, she rebukes her mother's sins: wondering greatly at those things which she had heard and exceedingly terrified, confessed, that she had done all, as the Saint had said. And the Saint said again: Since today before the third hour I ought to pass from this life, I wish hence hastily to depart, lest the debt of flesh in this place I should pay. For my brothers are indignant against me, wherefore I wish at the church of St. James del Poggio to be buried: follow me therefore: and her mother followed, and those who were with her. And when the Saint had proceeded a little, nor could on account of her torment further walk, she fell as if extinct to the ground. Then there appeared to her Bl. John the Evangelist and Bl. James the Apostle, comforting her. And when St. Gerardesca had reclined in the bosom of Bl. John the Evangelist, Bl. John said to her: You were thinking in your mind, to reveal all things which the Lord has shown you: but, she is bidden to keep silent of the other things seen. since you ought not yet to be stripped of human things, lest thence you should catch the praise of vain glory, such a purpose (from which you should wholly desist) was utterly displeasing to the Lord. And straightway touching her forthwith she was healed, and they departed: and the Saint went on her own feet to the church of Bl. James, praising and glorifying God.
[20] Likewise there appeared to her on a certain day the blessed Virgin Mary with Bl. John the Evangelist, Of her spiritual sons one and the holy Virgin had a certain vine in her hand, which had a trunk not small adorned with pearls, and seven grape-clusters adorned with odoriferous flowers. St. Gerardesca therefore asked Bl. John, what that vine portended. But Bl. John, with cheerful countenance regarding the Saint, greatly rejoiced with her; and leading her to the feet of the blessed Virgin, asked diligently, what that vine meant. But the blessed Virgin answered: This vine I hold in my hand, for your Religious son; which indeed as often as asked I show to my Son, so often He considers what I desire. The blessed Gerardesca therefore with tears said: My Lady, ought that same Religious to die at present? To this the blessed Virgin answered: He ought not to be deprived of secular life, until the grape-cluster which remains on this vine ripen. And she said also: I will not cast this vine from my hand, until I shall have presented his soul, reclining in my arms, before the sight of my Son. she understands to be dear to the Mother of God; Wherefore tell the said Religious, that by all means let him take care to obey his Prelate, whom he did not fear to resist; since obedience is no less pleasing to God, than the salutary host. And when she said these things, they departed. But St. Gerardesca, asking the said Religious about these things, learned from him all things, as it had been revealed to her.
[21] But when on a certain day her servant remained in prayer, she saw a certain Religious ascending, having a crown on his head, and four Angels most devoutly bore him. And when she beheld this most diligently, she saw two elders standing in the air, and with them was a most reverend Lady, extending unanimously their arms, that they might take the said Religious into heaven. She saw likewise very many men standing on the earth, who looking up into heaven praised and blessed God, saying; the same seen by her servant in glory, You are worthy, Lord, to receive the kingdom and glory and honor: and all rejoiced together with one another. These things therefore being seen the aforesaid servant going to St. Gerardesca, indicated to her in order as she had seen. But St. Gerardesca hearing these things, began with inmost heart the ineffable clemency of God to praise, who had shown His mercy about the said Religious.
[22] But afterward the holy woman, with tears inquiring diligently of the servant about those things which she had seen, she too thus sees thought in her mind, that the said Religious would in a short time be deprived of the present life, whereat she was greatly troubled. And when in such hesitation she persisted, soon her spirit was assumed, and she was with the Lord and with the blessed Virgin: and so it came about that by the will of the Lord the blessed Virgin, addressing St. John, said; Since the Lord wishes to fulfill the desire of Gerardesca, call John the Baptist and James. And when they were before the blessed Virgin, the blessed Virgin said to them: Go and satisfy Gerardesca, by endowing the Religious, just as John the Evangelist. And when they went together with the Saint, they came to a certain place, and understands those opposing her to be damned. where was a cloister not small, and trees of wondrous fair beauty. And when they went up, they saw there a wondrous bed, and youths shining with ineffable beauty, standing about it: and they saw the Trinity and the whole heavenly Court remaining in the house. And there was indeed there an Abbot, Urban by name, who once had been Abbot of the aforesaid monastery of St. Savinus, rejoicing very much on account of the ornaments of the Religious. The holy woman therefore recollecting her Brothers, who were wont to inflict tribulation on her, began most vehemently to doubt. But St. John the Evangelist said to her: They are now in hell, who caused you distress, and the rabid infernal dogs eat their tongues: for I incite the justice of God against those, who do not fear to make persecution against you. Truly therefore it became this Saint to rejoice, who had a son a helper in heaven and protector on earth.
[23] There was a certain Friar of the sacred Order of St. Francis, who continually suffered in his mind a huge tribulation. He went therefore on a certain day to St. Gerardesca, and entreated her saying: There is a certain Friar, whom I love as myself, Praying for another gravely afflicted, continually sustaining innumerable tribulations: I ask therefore your sanctity, that you ask the Most High, that He deign to show you, whence that Friar is so gravely disturbed: for he is occupied with so great grief, that he seems as if led into madness, and to come wholly into folly. But she the Friar's prayers, as she was wont, with a grateful mind receiving, offered herself about to procure, the things which would redound to the consolation of the said Friar and the salvation of his soul. And when she was on a certain day in the church, she returned to the memory of that whence the aforesaid Friar had so suppliantly entreated her: and setting her knees on the ground, she began most devoutly to pray for him: and returning to her little cell, her garments laid aside she sharply scourged herself. But when she thus in the maceration of her flesh persisted, openly from heaven she heard all things, on account of which the aforesaid Friar was afflicted with so great tribulation. she learns his sins for which he was so afflicted: But after some time the said Friar returned to the Saint: and she recited to him all things which against God he had done, and that on Good Friday he had sinned. Then he confessing all things to be thus true, just as the holy woman had said, said: Truly, Lady, all these evils I did, and I am worthy of death. And returned to his own, full of great joy he said to a certain colleague of his: Congratulate me, and let us give glory to our living and true God, since He has given me a special consolation, who is blessed unto the ages of ages. Amen.
[24] At the same time, when the only son of a certain noble woman of the Pisan city was sick to death, for a sick man soon about to die she obtains a brief health: his mother went to the Saint, humbly demanding, that she should ask God for her son. But soon when the Saint, benignly compassionating the miseries of the mother, entreated God for him, she heard a voice from heaven saying: I will restore him health, on account of the desire of the mother: but after a few days he will be taken from her. And straightway he was made whole who was infirm: and after no long time he died.
[25] A certain woman likewise had a son a soldier, who was very sick: praying for another sick man, she sent therefore her niece to the Saint, that she should ask her for her son. Then she, as pious and humble, immediately setting her knees, with tears entreated the Lord for the said sick man. And when she remained in prayer (whether in the body, or out of the body I know not, God knows) straightway she was led into a most beautiful and exceedingly pleasant meadow. And it was full of roses and other kinds of flowers, with no slight sweetness fragrant: but from the splendor of such flowers the whole heaven seemed rosy and joyful. But when the Saint beheld the beauty of so great a meadow, she saw three pilgrims coming toward her. But them approaching the Saint adored with all devotion: after a kiss given to the pierced feet of the Lord, and when she regarded the feet of one of them, and saw the fixings of the nails in them, straightway she judged that it was the Lord: and began most abundantly to weep, and from her tears to fill the places of the nails. But while the Saint desired to drink those tears, soon the Lord regarding her faith, His foot being moved from the ground, held it out to the Saint's mouth: and she rejoicing receiving it, she understands he would recover. drank all that water. The Lord therefore opening His mouth, said to the Saint: On account of the love of My Mother and yours and of James, your prayers
of you supplicating I will hear, since great is her faith; and I will restore health to her son, and he himself will bury his mother. And straightway he who was infirm was made whole, and lived after his mother not many days.
CHAPTER III.
The Blessed, amid heavenly visions knowing the sins of others, wisely heals the same.
[26] At the same time also there was a certain Friar of the Order of St. Francis, She knows that for the sake of tempting she is visited, bearing great faith and devotion toward the Saint, seeing and hearing the signs and prodigies, which the Lord continually showed through her. And when at a certain time the said Friar went to Rome, and found there the Minister of his Order; he began to set forth to him all things, which the Lord wrought in those days through St. Gerardesca. But the Minister stupefied at these things very much, wished to tempt her, saying, Let us go to her, and whatever between themselves they proposed to do. Not long after, the aforesaid Friars came to the place, where the Saint stayed: and when they were with her, the Saint addressed them saying: I do not wish to speak with those, who have come to tempt me. The Friars wondering at the things which they had heard from the Saint, and since she had revealed the secrets of the heart, fell to the ground, seeking to kiss her feet: and confessing all things as the Saint had said to them, departed from her, praising and glorifying God.
[27] Likewise at the same time, when on a certain day on the feast of Bl. Mary she went to the church of Bl. Francis, a certain Friar came to her, and said: Today at earliest dawn, I and a certain Friar standing together, perceived a great joy in the Lord: and there came a certain voice from heaven saying, In the church of the Minors hearing Mass The joy which you have seen ought to be transferred to another person, to whom also another greater I will show: prepare yourself therefore, Lady, since so great a grace is owed you. But she, full of all humility, devoutly in prayer remained, as she was wont. And while the choir of the Friars Minor sang, Holy, Holy, Holy, three rays of the sun came through the window which was near the altar, and three doves, and golden stars; of which doves two, having a hyacinthine color, lay on the right and left shoulder of the Priest, who treated the mysteries of the Mass at the altar, sustaining his arms: but the other dove, white as snow, she enjoys a heavenly vision, lifted up the Lord's Body, standing in the middle of the Priest; so indeed that the Priest believing to handle the Host, invisibly handled the dove, which the holy woman saw openly. But soon, St. Gerardesca remaining in prayer, her Spirit was borne into heaven; and she saw, to all the Priests, who at that hour celebrated the mysteries of the Mass, the glorious Virgin Mary with a great multitude of Angels standing by: and the Eucharist too, which they sacrificed, they broke upon the breast of the blessed Virgin when they said: Peace be with you. Then she heard all the Masses which were continually celebrated in the world, and the whole day in ecstasy she remains. at which likewise the blessed Virgin stood by. Furthermore the body of St. Gerardesca stood in the aforesaid church of St. Francis for the space of one day as lifeless, so that the Friars of that place wondered, praising the ineffable power of God. And when her spirit had returned to her body, the holy woman would not of those things which she had heard and seen that day reveal anything: but on the other day the Friars coming to her, learned from her whatever she had seen and heard diligently.
[28] At another time also there was a certain woman, the godmother of St. Gerardesca, To a woman who falsely defamed of adultery, having a certain kinsman of hers, whom she greatly loved. But it came about, when he wished to take a wife, that assenting to the persuasion of his kinswoman not to take a wife except of noble race, from this purpose he wholly desisted: wherefore the husband of the said woman angry, reproached her daily, saying: You do not wish your kinsman to take a wife. But she said: I do this, because I love him. And when the aforesaid kinsman of the aforesaid woman had learned from her, that her husband said such things to her; indignant he swore never to take a wife, except by the leave and command of his kinswoman. Therefore the neighbors, considering an oath of this kind, said to one another: For evil he did this, since he shared the offense of fornication with her. When therefore on a certain day the aforesaid woman went to the Priest that she might confess her sins, all her crimes she recited without the enormity of so great a sin. But that Priest, since he had heard her infamy, and what her neighbors reported of her, said to her: What do you think you are doing, unhappy one? All your crimes you disclose; but the execrable crime, which with your kinsman you did, you do not indicate: for of this is public fame, nor can you conveniently hide what is known to all: for your neighbors say, which from indignation she had committed, that you having fornicated with your kinsman, made him swear, never without your leave to take a wife. Then that woman kindled with fury, said, How can this be? And rising said to the Priest: I do not wish that you give me absolution, but await me up to fifteen days: and going away, the sin, which she had never with the kinsman done, she damnably did. And when she had returned to the Priest at the term as she had promised, she said to him: Lord, that which had not been, has been done, and departed: and so the Presbyter did not understand the word, nor did she confess the sin.
[29] Meanwhile the said woman on a certain day going to the church of Bl. Mary, placed a certain veil upon the icon of the blessed Virgin, for the remission of her sins. Then the blessed Virgin Mary appeared to St. Gerardesca saying: and then offered a veil to the Bl. Virgin, Such a godmother of yours offered me a certain veil, which I wholly refuse, on account of the sin which with her kinsman she committed, until it be deleted by the laver of penance. I tell you also that you store it away, until the said woman do penance for so great a crime. Go therefore and tell Lord Deodatus, Monk of St. James del Poggio, that she should approach the Priest who is her Penitentiary, that so by admonishing he solicit her and by soliciting admonish, that she receive a salutary penance: and she told her all things which the woman had done. Then the Saint rose, and went to the church, and found the veil, as the Blessed Virgin had said to her; which also she received from her, and stored it away.
[30] bidden to consult When therefore one day Fr. Deodatus had come with one companion to the Saint, the Saint called to herself the companion, and said to him, I have to speak with you. And she began to set forth to him, how Bl. Mary appearing gave her a certain veil b, which a certain woman had offered her for the remission of her sins, which indeed the holy Virgin abhorred, since with her kinsman she had fornicated. She said also to me: Go and keep that veil, and tell Lord Deodatus, that so with all solicitude let him strive, that he recall that woman from so great a crime to penance, and afterward restore the said veil. But when the Saint had indicated all things to the aforesaid Friar in order; the Friar said: I counsel you, Lady, that all these things in order you set forth to Lord Deodatus. Therefore the Saint, calling to herself Lord Deodatus set forth to him all things, through her Confessor; as above has been said. But he, stupefied at so great a mystery, said; What therefore, Lady, is to be done? I am indeed ready devoutly to execute all things, which you enjoin me. But the Saint said; Go, and seek the Priest who was wont to give her penance: and if you find it to be as I have said, return to me, and I will show you the veil. Lord Deodatus therefore going with his companion, and finding the Priest, asked him about all things which were said diligently. Then the Priest answering, said all the things to be true which were said by the Saint. And returning to the woman c, they narrated to her all things, as the Saint had indicated to them: but she denying all things, said, that she had never perpetrated a sin of this kind. Then Lord Deodatus said, Go to the church of Bl. Mary, and see if the veil is there. But she going to the named church, and not finding the veil there, knew that it was at the house of St. Gerardesca: and straightway returned to her heart, he causes her to be persuaded to do penance, she took for so great a sin a remedy. Then Lord Deodatus returned to the Saint with great joy, saying: The woman has received penance, and has confessed her fault. But the Saint, full of great joy, said: Go, restore the veil to the blessed Virgin: but they going did in all things as the Saint had commanded.
[31] Therefore not long after the said woman expired: who afterward dead appears to her. but on a certain night her soul passed, greatly tortured, near the little cell of the Saint, vehemently wailing: and entered to the Saint: and there entered two demons, who scourged her, with her. But the Saint compassionating her, and praying God for her, knew not who she was. Standing therefore before the Saint, she said: Why, O godmother, do you not speak to me? But the Saint, somewhat shaken with fear, knew her, and said to her: What do you wish? And she: Fear not, for I am such a godmother of yours. I ask you therefore, by reason of divine mercy, that you ask God for me: for the Lord reveals to you whatever pleases Him about any person. Were you not she who revealed to Lord Deodatus, that I was unwilling to do penance for so great a crime? on account of which I sustain an inestimable penalty and am tortured in d gehenna: those too, who outside remain, are the souls of sinners, who unceasingly are scourged. These things being thus said soon she departed.
[32] But when these and other miracles the Lord through His Saint showed, Praying for a Religious less obedient, the whole people running to her, there came to her a certain Religious: who trusting in the Saint's merits, asked her, that for him she should pray the Lord: for he was by the command of his Superior given to a certain obedience, which his mind bore ill. But she, inclined by the Religious's prayers, prayed for him. And when in prayer she persisted devout, whether in the body, or out of the body I know not, God knows, she was borne into the choir of the church of the aforesaid monastery of St. Savinus: and vehemently terrified she feared lest she be found there by the Monks, wherefore she said: O! if the Monks should come, and find me here standing, how great injury would they inflict on me? And looking at the door, whence the Brothers were wont to come, she sees the Mother of God in glory, she saw before the altar of Bl. Mary the Virgin a certain very comely tree, adorned with most white lilies: and a certain Lady leaned upon the tree, with hands joined for prayer. And when the Saint saw her, not wishing to cause her tedium, she drew back: and saw here and there in the choir, and near
the altar, very many Angels standing. Therefore when the Angels came to the Saint, that they might salute her; the Saint asked them, saying, Why do you stand here? But they answering, said: We are here with our Lady: and she is the one who prays before the altar. And when they said these things, forthwith they approached Bl. Mary, who now sat near the altar on a throne, standing on bent knees before her. Soon the blessed Virgin commanded them, that they should lead St. Gerardesca to her: who straightway going, set the Saint before the blessed Virgin. But blessed Mary said to the Saint: Why do you ask for the Religious? Did he not refuse to obey? the fault offensive by that: I wish that he be in all things obedient to his Abbot, since it is good: and she revealed to her the individual thoughts of the Religious. And straightway finding herself in her house, she began most vehemently to rejoice in the Lord.
[33] Likewise at a certain time a certain one proposed in his heart to slay a certain enemy of his: she reveals and hinders a slaying destined by another, and when he prepared an ambush that he might fulfill his wicked purpose, nor could the Lord hindering accomplish it; it was revealed to the Saint by a voice saying to her: Condemned e is such a one, because on such a day he wished to kill such a one. But straightway the Saint, causing the aforesaid man to be called to her, reproved him for so great a crime. But he these things heard, bitterly weeping confessed, that it was true as the Saint had said to him: and does thence salutary penance, praising the Lord Jesus Christ, who does not wish the death of sinners, but that they be converted and live.
ANNOTATIONS.
CHAPTER IV.
The Blessed narrates the things shown her in the heavenly Jerusalem through various visions.
[34] Wishing therefore the Saint on a certain day, the things which concerning the kingdom of God she had seen to reveal to others; she said, that while on a certain day, as was usual her soul was borne into heaven, when she crossed the planets of heaven, she saw a huge plain, which was called a the county of Jerusalem the holy city: and there was there a wonderful multitude of castles, and gardens exceedingly beautiful, She explains how rapt into heaven and all the streets of the city of Jerusalem were of most pure gold and precious stones. There were there too golden trees, set in order, whose branches likewise most beautiful shone with gold: flowers also bright and most fair were on them according to their properties, much more pleasant and delightful than these which we behold in worldly gardens. In the midst therefore of this county stands holy Jerusalem, sublime and exceedingly beautiful, adorned with all comeliness: in it too no one dwells, except in the city only. And there were round about seven citadels, comely with beauty, marked with the name of the glorious Virgin: which indeed sublime on the mountains, she saw the heavenly Jerusalem, hewn out of precious stone, have stairs in the ascent and descent, built of more precious gems: and continually upon them from on high with gems and pearls dripping, with all sweetness and delights are filled those ascending by them and descending. But the citadels endowed with inestimable ornament, contain in themselves victorious banners, fortified with the image of Bl. Mary. And indeed within they have precious seats, and shining with sacred splendors, of our Saviour and the glorious Virgin, of the Angels and Archangels, of the Apostles and Prophets, of the Confessors and Virgins, and also of all the Saints: and all things were disposed according to their order. Which citadels too thrice by the whole heavenly Court visited through the year, are filled with ineffable jubilation, and imbued with inestimable glory. and round about it various most beautiful citadels: But other very beautiful fortifications or castles, assigned to souls of great merit, with diligent devotion are kept watch over: but those souls b rejoicing, with the Saints sometimes come to the city: but when they wish to ascend to the city, they ascend by silver steps, which are round about the city adorned with every precious stone.
[35] Likewise also the city of Jerusalem, constructed of precious stones, has very high walls with twelve gates: its castles too, palaces, gardens, and streets are made of gold and most pure silver and precious stones. But the choir of Angels being distinct from the choir of Saints, when the Angels about to serve the Saints are moved from their choir, so the divine power works, that by no means the choir of Angels appears diminished: so also when souls go out of the city, they always appear in their places: but in it the choirs of Angels, and the walls of the city by no means oppose, but that all things may be clearly seen from every part: and the things which are outside the city in the castles and in the streets, likewise all are beheld, namely the whole eternal life. But the magnitude of the holy city of Jerusalem is inestimable; and this world likewise, in comparison of the heavenly fatherland, is reckoned as a threshing-floor. The Majesty too of the Father remaining there so towers above all the Angels and Saints, as the air of this world towers above us. The Son too remains beside the Father, and the blessed Virgin somewhat lower than the Son, so indeed that they can touch one another, the Mother and the Son. And twenty-four Elders remain near the Father, like the other Saints. Bl. John the Evangelist too has a place near the blessed Virgin, so namely that they can touch one another. But Bl. John is so gracious with the Lord by a most precious privilege, the order of the heavenly thrones, that when the Saints seek to intercede for those who are in the world, chiefly to him they refer it: who going to the place near the Virgin granted him, asks her that singular patron of the Christian faith, that for us with the Son she intercede. But the holy Virgin hearing his prayers, puts the hands of her Son into the hands of Bl. John. But St. John, as he perceives that he has obtained the things asked, returns to the place, which with the Apostles he holds above all the choirs of Saints. But the choirs of Saints are so proportionally ordered in heaven, that one overtops the other, according to the merit of each one meriting.
[36] and how there the Mother of God prays for men, And when Bl. Mary pours forth prayers for some to her Son, she lifts off her crown from her head, which the Angels reverently receive and keep: and straightway Christ rises to her, and all the Saints come and assist them. It is necessary therefore that whatever petitions, offered to God the Father, be obtained through Mary. Furthermore in the mantle of the blessed Virgin the choirs of the Apostles and of all the Saints miraculously appear. But on Sundays, Bl. John celebrating the mysteries of the Mass, all the holy Clerics in each order standing by at the Offices of the Mass, Bl. Mary the Virgin takes the Eucharist of the Lord for all sinners seven times; and in a wondrous manner, when "The Lord be with you," and, "Peace be ever with you" is said, reverently, unanimously, and uniformly by all it is answered. Nor does anyone dare there to sing Mass, except Bl. John: nor does anyone dare to communicate, except the blessed Virgin: which indeed is done only on the feast of the Lord's Nativity, on the Epiphany, on the Resurrection, on the Ascension, on Pentecost, on the Annunciation, and Assumption of Bl. Mary c.
[37] especially for those specially devoted to her; O blessed eyes, which then see our Lord, the Son of God, the mantle cast off, take the golden staff, and go through eternal life, serving the Saints. And when He goes, He is adored by all: and the Saints regarding God the Father, with all devotion render Him immense thanks for so great most sweet gifts, which neither eye could behold, nor ear perceive, nor the heart of man think. But all the Saints without doubt in the heavenly fatherland are generally called sons of Bl. Mary: nevertheless those who placed their hope in the blessed Virgin and served her, have a place in heaven proper, in such a manner that by all they are reckoned sons of Bl. Mary: a great merit too is stored up for them, and also a compensation of merits: and indeed all are seen in her mantle, in a wondrous and clear vision. Therefore let all know, that those who in the prison-house of this world have placed their hope in the blessed Virgin and served her, will not be defrauded by her: for the Angels love them, ask God for them: for the Angels too are secure through her after the fall of others d.
[38] likewise how great grace St. John the Evangelist there has Again the Saint said: When Bl. Mary migrated from this life, no one touched her except Bl. John the Evangelist: from which grace indeed Bl. John having obtained ineffable joy, exulted with so great festivity, as never, even when he reclined upon the breast of the Lord, did he enjoy. For he considered, the hands of the Lady, which he touched, to have nourished the Lord the Son of the living God: for with ineffable grace then he shone, e when he was seen by the Apostles on earth to be with them, and before the divine Majesty he exulted in heaven. But the Father and the Son, as loving him with a singular grace, granted to the same Bl. John power then of ordering the whole heavenly Court in honor of our Lady. Then Christ came, with the Angels and all the Saints, and the body of the blessed Virgin and her soul with great joy and triumph they bore into heaven. O how delightful a minstrel! and how the Virgin Mary being assumed, O how Christ then was a most sweet organist! when on that day, on which Bl. Mary ascended the heavenly kingdoms, He sang together such a sweet-sounding and new canticle, as never was thought by the Angels in heaven, nor by men had been heard on
earth. she is called the Mother of mercy: And when the blessed Virgin was assumed into heaven, the Lord Jesus Christ received her, and presented her to God the Father with great gladness. Whom with ineffable jubilation receiving God the Father, set her above all the choirs of Angels and Saints wonderfully, and said to her: Behold I have set you above the nations and kingdoms, and with you I will divide my kingdom. And when He had said these things, He imposed on her a most glorious name, that all namely should call her the Mother of mercy, but to the Son He said: But you shall be called the Father of justice, doing judgment and justice. But this I establish, that my justice henceforth yield to your mercy, so that what from you is mercifully asked, by me from full justice may be granted. Then the blessed Virgin sat on the throne of mercy and benignity, reigning with God the Father in everlasting glory f.
[39] what feast there at her Nativity, Then again she opened her mouth and said: On the day of the Nativity of Bl. Mary, all the choirs and orders of Angels send their greater ones, to confer on God the Father honor and glory for so great a benefit benignly granted to the world, namely for the nativity of the exalted Mother of God Mary. Then the Angels approaching, the blessed Virgin here and there with all humility sustain, and the crown which she lays down from her head devoutly receive. And indeed the crowns of all the Saints being laid down, the holy Virgin receiving in her arms the Son, offers Him to God the Father, and the Father receives Him in His bosom, and unspeakably rejoices. O admirable joy! O unspeakable gladness! God and man, the Son of God, rests in the bosom of the Father. But after these things Christ returns to His mother, full of all alacrity and benignity.
[40] how souls only purged, These things therefore being said she began to narrate and tell of the souls, freed from the penalties of Purgatory, and hastening to the joys of everlasting glory, and said: It befits any soul, desiring to enter the eternal joys of the heavens, to have three things in itself: first, that it be purged of all contagion; second, that it be anointed with the preciousness of unguents; third, that it be endowed with the chaplet of all virtues. Ps. 65:12 Of the first the Psalmist says, We have passed through fire and water: for truly the just say, that they have passed through fire and water; because in fire all rust is destroyed, in water likewise all foul things are washed away. sanctified, But of the second Ecclesiastes says, In the odor of your unguents we run to you: the Saints say, that they run in the odor of unguents, namely of those who in this world reap the fame of good opinion from the little garden of their own conscience, and bestow on others an example of holy operation from themselves. Cant. 1:4 But of the third Isaiah g says, Every precious stone is your covering: for what by precious stones can we designate, and adorned thence arrive, except the highest ornaments of virtues, by which as the rays of the sun the souls of the Saints shine in heaven. The Saint therefore said, After souls are thus adorned, they are presented in the sight of the Most High, with whom they reign unto the ages of ages.
[41] Again she began to tell the special beatitudes, which souls have in eternal life with the holy Angels: four from the heads of the future blessed. and she told four chief beatitudes, which it befits souls to have in heaven; namely wisdom and beauty, joyfulness and rest. For wisdom they have with the Angels, because they hunt no counsel, but know all things; beauty they have without any stain, that in it the Most High may be delighted; full joyfulness they have, unceasingly with the Angels rejoicing before God; perpetual rest too they obtain, enjoying every sweetness. And again she said: When I was in the church of Bl. Stephen, I heard choirs of those psalming in that church and in heaven: and behold Angels ascended and descended, and mingled concerning us before the Most High good and evil. But while I heard the sweet-sounding songs, behold the Son of God Jesus Christ rejoiced with God the Father, when He heard the good news of His faithful. St. John the Evangelist intercedes for sinners. And straightway the Father blessed the Son, and the Son blessed all the faithful Christians living on earth h… What therefore does Bl. John, the chosen virgin of Christ, do? what does he hastily procure, when he hears evil of us? Certainly compassionating us very much, quickly he hastens, quickly he speeds. He orders a new canticle before God, that he may pacify the Lord angry with us, and turn His fury into grace, whom by our crimes we often make furious against us. But on the feast of the nativity of our Lady, the Saints adorn our Lady with a certain round mantle, singing with all sweetness and saying, You, about to undertake man to free him, did not abhor the Virgin's womb. Then the Angels and all the Saints humbly revering our Lord, St. Mary with joined arms regards her Son, as if she said: I give You thanks for these things in which these honor me, for more they cannot. Ah! blessed John, as on earth you are called the Eagle, so its office you do not refuse in heaven: for sometimes you fly to the Father, and embrace His feet, and sweetly kiss His breast. Moreover when the Saints with sweet-sounding modulations sing, "Father of immense majesty," before God the Father with all reverence they bow.
ANNOTATIONS.
resigned, they even cheerfully acquiesce. Yet there are those who think that individual clients are committed to individual ones only once, on account of their inestimable multitude. Meanwhile it pertained to fidelity not wholly to dissemble these things, for somewhat excusing which, the Parergon alleged above can serve.
CHAPTER V.
The Blessed is visited by the Saints: for a Religious dear to her and for the purging souls she effectively entreats.
[42] But when on a certain night the Saint, gravely sick, Ailing the Blessed is visited by Christ; could in no way rest in her little bed, she began to ask the Lord with humble prayer, together with the most glorious Mother of God Mary, that in so great a sickness with her He would deign mercifully to deal. And straightway the Lord appearing to her, as in the world He had conversed, showed her His hands fixed with nails, and revealed to her His thoughts, and all things both past and present and future, which had been committed by others: and when He had said these things He departed, and the Saint recovered.
[43] He commends to her a Religious devoted to her: On a certain night therefore, when her soul, borne into heaven, was with Christ and the blessed Virgin; she began to think of a certain Religious, and to say within herself: O if that one could have beheld so great a joy! And the Lord regarding her faith, called Bl. John the Evangelist to Him, saying to him: I give you power of doing for Gerardesca according to her desire, as you would wish to satisfy me. But Bl. John going said to the Saint: No sin will be able to hinder your devout Religious, as long as he lives, but that he possess eternal life; nor will there be to him while he lives tribulation, nor distress: and Fr. Peter, our friend, will be present at his death. But after these things our Lady, the queen of the world, in all these things to the most high Jesus Christ rendered thanks, who deigned to reckon the said Religious His own little servant. But Bl. John said; I must for the servants of our Lady entreat the Lord more frequently than for others.
[44] On the feast of the Nativity of the Lord, at midnight, as the Saint says, when her spirit was in heaven, she saw all the Saints and Angels preparing themselves, that they might confer praises and honor and glory on the Mother of God Mary. And Christ came clad in a little Tunic, and Bl. John the Evangelist with Him. she sees the Nativity of the Lord celebrated by the Saints Then the Saints coming together went to the place where the most precious ornaments of our Lady remained, namely to the Archbishopric of Bl. John the Evangelist. And the blessed Virgin Mary descending into the third street of the city of Jerusalem, to which by three steps one descends from the second, and also by as many to the second from the first, was clad by Bl. John in a certain wondrous round mantle, Jesus remaining inclined at her feet: and Jesus gave her gloves and a ring, and kissed her hands. But St. Gerardesca thinking of her devout Religious, that he could rejoice in so great a vision; immediately the blessed Virgin called to her Christ and Bl. John, saying to them: Go, and call that Religious. And when they had fulfilled the command of our Lady, they returned and said to St. Gerardesca: Your devout one is present, and now he adorns our Lady. But the Saint rejoicing not a little looked: and saw him drawing the fringes of our Lady with all devotion. But afterward the Virgin spread the mantle with which she was clad, the same Religious assisting. and received the Religious under it, asking Bl. John and saying: If I were in the world needing you in anything, would you not succor me? But this I do not say on your account, but on account of the one standing by, that I may satisfy him. But St. John answered; If I could, for you the kingdom of God I would relinquish. And again the blessed Virgin said: You know the will of God, I recommend to you this my little servant. But Bl. John answered: I will do whatever you wish, Lady. Then the blessed Virgin blessed him. Furthermore Christ said to His mother: What do you wish me to do, mother? But she recommended to Him the said Religious.
[45] To St. John the Evangelist in the appearance of a pilgrim she gives alms: When St. Gerardesca on a certain day remained in prayer, and the door of her house was closed, a certain pilgrim approaching asked of her alms, by reason of Bl. Mary and Bl. John the Evangelist. But forthwith the Saint, perceiving the fragrance and odor of his garments, ran to the door, and said to the pilgrim: Since it is not in the custom of men thus expressly for love of Bl. John to ask alms, why for love of him have you asked alms? My eyes indeed I would bestow on you for love of him: enter therefore into my house, and take whatever you wish. And he said: I do not wish all the things you have said, but only bring me of your bread. But the Saint going brought him three breads and as many cheeses: for she desired to give him such an alms: but he straightway from her eyes vanished, at which the Saint was not a little stupefied.
[46] who appearing to her afterward gives thanks, At the same time also in Lent, when the Saint was enclosed within the chamber of her house, and her servant had gone to the house of a certain neighbor of hers; the Saint saw the door of her chamber open, and her whole house was everywhere unlocked. And when soon she rose to see what it was, she saw before the door of her hall standing three men, comely with venerable hoary hair; and there was with them a certain venerable Lady, adorned with precious garments: and each of them had a handful of roses in their hands. And when they had entered the oratory of the Saint, they began to pray a little. And so when they sat and were unknown to the Saint, one of them said: O Blessed James, speak. These things heard the Saint began vehemently to rejoice. Another too said, And you St. John speak. But as the Saint heard the name of Bl. John, before St. James she fell at his feet weeping for exceeding joy. So Bl. John took her by the hand, and lifted her from the ground, and set her near his feet, showing her the ring which he had on his finger, and said: Do you recognize this ring? But the Saint saw the ring, but its gem (since it was enclosed in the hollow of the hand) she could not see. And when Bl. John had shown her the stone of the ring, the Saint saw in it the whole glory and triumph of the heavenly life; and when the stone was hidden, nothing of these things did the Saint see.
[47] and Bl. Bona, St. John said also, This Lady whom you see, is Bl. Bona, who came with us therefore, because when she was in the world, I and Bl. James in a like manner visited her. So St. Bona, having in her hands golden rods full of roses, gave one of them to St. Gerardesca. But when St. Gerardesca received it, she said in her heart, I will give it to such a Father of mine in Christ, who also will show it to others: and she rejoiced thereat. Then Bl. John said to her, What have you thought in your heart? And he took the rod from her hand, and said: Tell your fault. But she confessed, and did not deny, what in her heart she had conceived. And when they remained there up to the third hour, Bl. John said to her: That stone, which you saw in the ring, is your eye; which to me, when I asked of you alms, you wished to deliver: the other eye likewise Bl. Mary keeps. And the Saints departed from her.
[48] Amid heavenly songs When on a certain night the Saint watched in bed, nor could take sleep, she said: I will rise to pray: for it is the hour. And since still a short hour had passed, again thinking she said: I can well rest a little while. But when these things and like things within herself she pondered, forthwith she heard the voices of those singing psalmodies; and where it is customary to say, Glory be to the Father, they said, Julitta is her name. But the Saint when she had heard the name of Julitta, since she was her spiritual daughter, straightway rising from the bed in which she lay, went out: and while she saw no one, the voices of the singers however she unceasingly heard. Then looking into heaven, with great joy she saw the Lord, coming in a certain wheel, which with great splendors shone: and Angels stood around Him, having handfuls of roses in their hands. Furthermore the Angels descending to her, gave her two of those branches, and said; These branches are of such ones: and one of them was on every part written; There is no veil like the veil of Julitta on earth. But after the Lord departed, the Saint said in her heart, I will send these branches to those, to whom they are assigned. she understands the excellence of Julitta dear to her. And when she was near the door of that man, through whom she was to send those little branches, the little branches being snatched from her hand, she could not even show them to him. But that man (as he asserted) felt thence so most sweet a fragrance of most sweet odor, as he had never in his life perceived.
[49] On a certain night also, while she stood in prayer, there appeared to her a demon, feigning the human likeness of her husband, and also pretending the habit of garments, Tempted by a demon appearing in the appearance of her husband, which that man had worn to the Saint, while she was in the world. And when he said to her foul words and wholly to be abhorred; the Saint shaken with vehement fear and trembling, began to ask the Lord with humble prayer, that He would deign to free her from so great peril: and she said to the demon; Do all things which the Lord permits you concerning me, for I well recognize you: since indeed if you were he whose likeness you feign, soon I would slay him with my own hands, and his soul to your power I would deliver. Then the demon seized her, and strongly scourged her, and scourged, striking her face on the floor of the house, so that blood from her mouth and nostrils flowed. But St. Gerardesca, exposed to the torments of the demon, praised the Lord: who permitted His little handmaid, as placed between the anvil and the hammer, to be tried like gold. But forthwith the demon seized her, and set her up to the church of St. John de Gaytano, which is toward the sea in the suburb of the Pisan city: and put her into a certain little boat, she is borne to the river to be drowned; which was in the river Arno, wishing to submerge her: and vehemently shaking the little boat, he put into it no slight water. But the Saint continually crying out, he never ceased in all things and through all, unwilling to desist from such crises, by which he unceasingly distressed her.
[50] and by the Saints invoked she is freed; And when the Saint, not a little wearied and worn,
for the rest could no longer resist; fearing lest she should perish in the waters, she began to ask the help of the Lord and of Bl. Mary the Virgin with a loud voice, that she would deign to defend her from so great peril: in the same manner too she often invoked the help of Bl. John the Evangelist: and straightway there appeared to her Bl. Mary and Bl. John the Evangelist, and many Angels with them near the bank of the river, comforting her. Then to the Angels standing by the blessed Virgin Mary commanded that they should scourge the demon. And when the Angels had seized him, they frequently lifted him up into the air, and submerged him in the river: but after these things they scourged him near the bank of the river. And so it came about, and the demon being scourged by the Angels she is dismissed, that, while the Angels thus monstrously scourged him, a horrid band of demons remaining everywhere, screeching with high-sounding sounds, compassionated his pains, and together the demons wailed. Furthermore Bl. Mary the Virgin together with Bl. John led the Saint out of the river, and set her in the church, straightway departing. But St. Gerardesca, beholding herself alone in the church, who was never destitute of spiritual company, began, cold with fear, to think and say: What shall I do, Lord? If any come hither, and find me thus standing, what will they say? I know not what I shall do. Certainly I will go to such a kinsman of mine, and to him all things as they have been done I will indicate. What if he will not believe? In the name of my Lord Jesus Christ I will go.
[51] she is asked by the dead that for them she should pray, And when she undertook the journey, and was before his house, hearing there the Matin Office being rung, she ceased from the purpose of wishing to call her kinsman; I can well said she return to my house. And when she said these things and crossed through the street of the city, she saw men keeping the night-watches over the grain, and said: If these come to me, what shall I say? I know not what I shall do: Lord, succor me. But proceeding a little toward the old bridge of that city, she saw there a multitude of men, at which she was vehemently terrified. And two of them in the habit of women, coming to meet her, said: O daughter, we are such neighbors of yours, and we know that this night you have endured great tribulation: but we ask you that you intercede for us with the blessed Virgin, that to the penalties by which we are afflicted we may in no way return. For the holy Virgin is in the church of St. Martin: hasten therefore to her, and pray for us. Furthermore when the Saint had crossed the bridge, she saw the whole neighborhood, which is toward the church of St. Martin, to the Mother of God to whom she was led: shine and with great splendors radiate. Then she began to think in her heart and say; How shall I go into the sight of our Lady, since I am everywhere torn in garments? But her strength being resumed boldly she went. And when she stood at the feet of the Virgin, the holy Virgin said to Bl. Mary Magdalene: Receive Gerardesca under your mantle, and cover her. But this being done St. Gerardesca went with them rejoicing, and there was with them our Lord Jesus Christ, with Bl. John the Evangelist, and with a great multitude of Angels.
[52] But when they had passed through the places, where were those who had asked the Saint, St. Mary Magdalene said to St. Gerardesca; Have you anything to say to us? But she recollecting those prayers, said, I wish to ask our Lady for the souls of certain deceased ones, whose prayers I admitted, that they may be freed from the penalties of Purgatory. She saying these things, Bl. Mary Magdalene, calling to her Bl. John, recited to him all things which the Saint asked. which she does, Therefore our Lord, holding the girdle of His mother, revered her, walking before her as a little infant. And when the blessed Virgin, admonished by the prayers of the Saint, asked her Son that He would deign to admit the Saint's prayers; Christ said: Mother, many seeing your mercy ask you: but you ought not to hear all, since not everyone who asks is worthy to obtain. But the blessed Virgin answered; Since on your account, most humane Son, I am called by all the Mother of mercy, I will never close the door of my mercy to anyone. Then the Lord commanded the Angels standing by, that receiving those souls, they should open the heavenly kingdoms to the worthy; but the unworthy, until they should be found worthy, in a place exempt from penalty they should place: and it was done so. These things being thus performed St. Gerardesca found herself in her house, and our Lord was with her; the blessed Virgin too, St. John the Evangelist, and St. Mary Magdalene. and obtains that they be loosed from the penalties. Then Bl. Mary Magdalene stripped her of her garments, that she might see the marks of the bruises, which the iniquitous demon had inflicted on her. So the blessed Virgin Mary clothing her with new garments, gave her the kiss of peace and said: Because you would not with your mouth touch the demon, your mouth I sweetly kiss: and afterward delivering her into the hands of Christ, a little delay being protracted, they departed from her.
CHAPTER VI.
Other various divine favors, bestowed by Christ and the Saints on the Blessed, or on others for her sake.
[53] When on a certain occasion the sister of St. Gerardesca was held by a grave sickness, She frees her sick sister by a touch from the sight of demons. continually before herself she saw a demon, horrible in foulest quality. And when more shaken with terror of the demon, than afflicted by the affliction of the infirmity, she was greatly anxious in mind, she always feared and trembled. But St. Gerardesca, led by divine rather than human love, came to her. But while she approached the little bed of the sick woman, and laid her hand upon her breast; the demon, who to the sick woman always remained visible, departed: but also straightway when she drew back her hand; the demon forthwith stood by the sick woman. The sick woman therefore calling the Saint, said to her; Lay your hand upon my breast: for while you thus bestow on me the benefit of your grace, the demon is put to flight from my sight. The sick woman therefore restored by the merits of the Saint to her pristine health, began the great works of the Lord, which continually were shown through the Saint, to reveal to all.
[54] Besides when on a certain day the Saint, prevented by infirmity, had received from Dom Gregory, She is absolved by her Confessor who died before her: Abbot of the monastery of St. Michael of the Discalced, penance for things committed; and he had enjoined her, that, health being obtained, about to receive Absolution she should go to him; she heard from certain ones that the said Abbot had died. And straightway recollecting the precept which the Abbot had made her, she began bitterly to weep: and from grief falling to the ground, as if extinct she remained. Then her spirit was rapt into heaven, and she saw there Bl. Bona, and St. James, and that holy Abbot: who also absolved her, as he had promised.
[55] she beholds the heavenly citadel of St. Mary: At another time too her spirit was lifted into heaven, and was in a place where was a certain fortress, which was called the Fortress of St. Mary: which since it is situated upon a mountain which seven miles extends in height, at each mile everywhere by a certain street distinct, by the heavenly Court is surrounded with a procession sometimes: and is endowed with wondrous banners of the divine Majesty, and of the blessed Virgin, and of all the Angels. But this fortification, containing seven towers, has also choirs of Angels, of the Apostles and of all the Saints. And there was there the cloister of Bl. Bernard: and there Bl. John the Evangelist in Lenten time, namely three days in the week, celebrates Mass. And when in that place a certain seat was made by the Angels, and the Saint inquired of them whose the seat was; she deserved to hear, that it was of such a son of hers devoted in Christ.
[56] Likewise also when on a certain day at earliest dawn she thought of certain Brothers of the monastery of St. Savinus, who continually set a stone of scandal for her; these or like things within the enclosures of her breast she began to say. for the Monks troublesome to her Why do they inflict on me tribulation and injury? Indeed I inflict on them no trouble: I serve all: and they, when many of the Religious have faith in me, in no way revere me: and she began with a great abundance of tears to entreat the Most High, that He would spare them. After these things she began with head uncovered to sit, and to cease from prayer. And forthwith perceiving a very great odor, she saw the Lord Jesus Christ, holding His feet joined, as He held them fixed on the cross, blood flowing from the wounds: and she feared greatly. But the Lord said to her, Fear not: she entreats the Crucified: I am crucified, both for you and for the salvation of many: but I grieve that your Brothers crucify me again, while they cease not always to inflict scandals on you: nevertheless as then my crucifixion was their redemption, so now too it will be their damnation. And when the Saint on bent knees thought to draw the nail with her own mouth from the feet of the Lord, and to put it into her own body; the Lord inclined Himself, and seized her, and gave her most full consolation, weeping with her. And He said to her: I never had so great compassion in Mary Magdalene, as I have in you now. But I will take vengeance, and avenge you of injuries. And He departed from her.
[57] she hears Mass celebrated by Christ: After these things on a certain night, while she was in her little bed, in good time she was tempted and solicited, that to prayer she should rise: and so set in prayer she perceived a very great consolation; when straightway (whether in the body, or out of the body, God knows) she was led to the church of St. Savinus. Furthermore when she found there many Angels sweeping the church, she addressed them saying: What means it that you do? But they answering said: Rest a little while and repose, since more fully than usual on this night you will rejoice. But while they said these things to her, behold there stood by Angels having wings, who adorned the church with most beautiful curtains, which they had brought with them. These things being thus done she heard thunders and terrible sounds: for the Lord with the Angels, and Apostles, and with all the Saints descended into the church. Then she saw there the Lord singing Mass, and a certain devout Religious of hers consecrated Bishop. The Mass therefore being celebrated the Saint went with the Lord to eternal life, and so likewise the Religious with them. Therefore that Religious was presented before the blessed Virgin, and near her feet remained. And when that Religious applied his hands to the hands of the blessed Virgin, the holy Virgin kissed his hands and head.
[58] Furthermore on a certain night, when St. Gerardesca was held by a grave infirmity, the sick woman understands she is not to be deserted by Him. she rose to pray: and when for a long space she had prayed, soon she was borne in spirit to her bed. But neither thence troubled nor terrified, she ceased not to pray the Lord, that He would deign, the prison-house of the flesh being abandoned, to place her in rest. Then the Lord, appearing to her, sweetly consoled her, saying: Fear not, since
I am with you all the time of your life, nor likewise will I leave you in death: for short is your life. And when the Lord wished to depart, she cried saying, Do not abandon me, Lord, in this life, where the labor is most laborious and the lamentation continual. Therefore the Lord a third time returned to her, and consoled her not a little, when He said: I will not dismiss you, daughter, but ever stay with you, and give you all manner of consolation.
[59] These things being thus done, on a certain day there came to her very many women, that they might hear her: among whom was a certain one, Of a woman doing penance for consent to sin making from contrition a great weeping. And when the Saint thence took the strength of great consolation, the following night she began to think within herself and say, Lord Jesus Christ, make me a partaker of those tears. And straightway her soul was in heaven with Bl. John the Evangelist. Then Bl. John said to her: The woman, who yesterday before you so bitterly wept, therefore did so, because she now knew herself ensnared in the noose of a great crime: for she promised to such a one in such a place to commit the crime of lust with him, and thence has now received the nefarious wages: and since for so great a crime she has been led to penitence, soon she will come to you: but you in a previous discourse will foretell her all things just as she had resolved to do. But it came about when the woman had come to the Saint, and had heard the enormity of her crime from the Saint, with tears she confessed, saying: It is true, Lady, she knows the danger and by counsel drives it away. all things which you have said that I a wicked one have done: and now prostrate at your feet, I am ready, beyond any ambiguity, to perform whatever your Sanctity, for the cleansing of so great an offense, shall wish to command me. But the Saint answering, said to her: Go, and render back to him the whole damnable reward, which from him you had received. And straightway the woman returned, praising and glorifying the Lord, all things most devoutly, as the Saint had commanded her, executing.
[60] At a certain time, when St. Gerardesca had devotion in a certain Religious, Erring about a Monk whom she believed a Saint, whom she reputed good and devout, but truly he was evil; it happened that with great affections she bore to behold him with bodily eyes. And while in so great fervor of mind she persisted, there appeared a certain Monk, saying; Do you wish to come to such a Religious, whom you desire to see? The Saint answered: I wish to come. And he: First shave your head after the monastic manner, and put on a cowl. But St. Gerardesca straightway had her head shaved, and put on a cowl, and undertook the journey with the Monk. And when they went a little together, the Saint began within herself to think and say: Why do I go with him? I do not recognize him, and I go with him? And she said to the Monk; With so great joy, Brother, I was imbued, the name of the Religious being heard, that with you, whom I never knew, abruptly I undertook the journey: and therefore I do not wish to come with you further, because I do not recognize you. But the Monk, these things known, gave the Saint a certain staff saying; Do not be afraid, hold this staff in your hand, and no one will be able to see you. she learns his evil works: And straightway the Saint, her strength resumed, began securely with the Monk to go. Furthermore when they had come to the place where that Religious stayed, the Monk said to the Saint: Behold the place, and that is the Monk, whose life the Lord wishes to show you, that thenceforth you may recognize him, and in no way as you were wont revere him: behold therefore and regard him, and his depraved work. And straightway they called to them the Religious: and speaking with him they knew his evil works. But then the Saint in that church heard Mass, and the Eucharist of the Lord being received there, in one moment she found herself in her house. After this perhaps not a few things are wanting.
[61] of those whom she had commended to the Bl. Virgin In this article moreover, which is exhibited headless, the Mother of God explains to the Saint her affections toward Christ, lately born of her; whom, she says, from the manger … taking up again, I felt so great and such a fragrance of odor, that I would continually have wished to store Him in the secret place of my breast. Likewise I wished, admonished with maternal promptitude, to give Him kisses of sweetness, but the reverence due to human condition by no means attempted. Nay I lifted my eyes into heaven, and the heavens were opened, and God the Father granted me concerning the affection of kissing the blessing of His leave: and the eyes of my most glorious only-begotten being kissed, I straightway perceived a most sweet gladness, impossible to be set forth by human colloquies. After these things the blessed Virgin, opening her mantle, received St. Gerardesca into it, saying to her: All and singular things, she is certified of salvation: which John the Evangelist promised you, in your sons with fuller liberality I confirm, asserting by name of certain ones: and when the day of their death shall come, I and my Son together with the Angels will come to meet their souls. Then St. John the Evangelist seized the Saint, setting her near the feet of our Lord Jesus Christ, who to all things gave a ready assent, which the blessed Virgin had promised.
[62] Likewise when on a certain night the Saint heard Matins on the feast of St. Andrew the Apostle; she sees Angels singing psalms with the Monks. she saw a very great splendor, visibly illuminating the whole church: and the Brothers standing in the church one by one had opposite to them remaining Angels with greatest reverence, and singing psalms with them. And one of the Angels was with the Saint, saying: Regard and see that Brother, because without mortal sin his mind is coupled to God, and his Angel blesses him: and the Angel of that Brother, who is in mortal sin, is greatly angry with him, the Prophet saying, The Princes went before, joined to those singing psalms in the midst of the young women playing the timbrels. Ps. 67:26 And again she said: Although these Angels frequently descend below and ascend, glorious however and great they ever persevere in the heavens.
CHAPTER VII.
The remaining favors of God toward Gerardesca, so far as from the mutilated Codex they are had.
[63] At another time too the Lord wished the soul of the Saint to be lifted into heaven, and to be near the citadel of the blessed Virgin. She sees an adornment given from heaven to a certain nun still living, Then she saw there the cloister of Bl. Michael, and many souls which were with him, which indeed were purged from the contagions of offenses: among whom was a certain Nun, over whom the Saint wondered vehemently, since she was still living in the world. Then she asked St. Michael about that Nun, since she was not yet called from the world. But he answering said to her: I will not tell you of her death or life, but what about her ought to be done, you shall behold. Then Bl. Michael commanded her to be stripped, and her body to be anointed with most precious unguent, and a great crown to be set on her head. And again he said: Do you wish to ascend the citadel of the blessed Virgin? But she answering, said: I wish it, Lord. And when they had come to the foot of the stairs, distrusting on account of the very great height of ascending them, the Lord willing, in the twinkling of an eye she found herself above. Then she saw there a very great multitude of holy Virgins, and the choir of holy Virgins: among whom she recognized St. Catharine, asking her and saying; Who then are these, my Lady? But she answering said, I am Catharine, and these are all the holy Virgins, who were most faithful to our Lady: and we know that therefore this place is assigned to us, that we may receive consolation from our Lady. But I tell you, that praying I, since I am the advocate of all serving her, receive greater consolation from her. St. Catharine also showed her the whole eternal life, and the mansions, and the names of some men and women.
[64] On a certain night she went to Matins, and the Office happily begun, the Saint began with great joy to exult. likewise stars to ascend and descend And the Saint raising her eyes to heaven, saw above the choir of the church of St. Savinus, in which she stayed, a certain heaven of Angels, who had wings joined among themselves, and nothing was seen of them but their faces; and stars appeared, from which went forth a wondrous splendor: and above the head of the Abbot and of two others came a certain sphere, like the sphere of the sun, and a star. The stars therefore sometimes ascending and descending, the splendor nevertheless fixed remained in them. Then the Saint thought to call the Abbot, that he might see all these things, but feared lest it should be to others a scandal. And so it came about, that the first Nocturn finished her soul was borne to heaven: and she was there with the Lord. Then the Lord addressing her said: I showed you a heaven of Angels, on account of which you desired to call the Abbot; but led by fear lest you should offend others, you did not call. And well indeed you did: for if you had called him, over the Monks singing psalms: perhaps something unwelcome he would have perceived. The star too, which ascended and descended, is that grace; which, when man is joined to God, fixed remains upon him; and when he indulges himself with some enticements of vanities, is separated from him: and when the Monks said, Glory be to the Father, those Angels made among themselves a very great sound. Meanwhile the Lord said: Men ought to fear the day of judgment, since on that day the justice of God the Father will judge, from which no one will be able to appeal. On that day the Saints will tremble and the Angels, and yet they desire to see it: they fear on account of the din of the judgment, they desire on account of the resurrection of bodies.
[65] In process of time, when the Lord wished to reveal His power to St. Gerardesca, she contemplates the power of God: He set her spirit near the throne of God the Father. And when the Saint looked below, seeing all the Saints men and women stand beneath her, she wondered most vehemently. The Father therefore said to her: I wish to show you all things which I have made. And opening His mouth, He began in order to express, how from the beginning He created the Angels, and lastly the world and man: how also at last, from the highest affection of the Creator toward man, He delivered His only-begotten to death. Then He showed her, how many and which are saved and ought to be saved, and their virtues from Adam up to the end of the world. And after these things He said to her: Although by memory you cannot comprehend all things, which you have seen; yet there is no one on earth or has been yet, to whom I have permitted to know so many things.
[66] At another time too St. Gerardesca was at St. Savinus, that she might hear Mass: Under the Mass she is certified and when the Office had begun, she regarded the Cross, which is in that church; and in it the Lord's body seemed from the navel upward incarnate: on its breast too was a certain bird, most white and small in body, which had a beak of gold. Then that bird toward
the Cross spreading its wings, sang three times: and forthwith flew to the Saint: and putting its beak to her ear, as if it portended the likeness of some humanity, set forth to the Saint all things which in her heart she had pondered, and how she had asked God for a certain Religious: and it said: Although for your Religious you have asked God, concerning the good state of the Religious dear to her: that He would deign to show you, whether that same Religious were stripped of all his guilts: yet I tell you, that as you shall see me washed on the breast of the Lord, so he is perfectly cleansed from sins. And these things being said that bird forthwith flew to the Cross: and in the sight of the Saint in the water, which from the breast of the Lord more abundantly flowed, it washed itself wholly, our Lord Jesus Christ granting it, who prepares for all indulgence abundantly. But the little bird departing, forthwith the aforesaid apparition also departed.
[67] and again to Christ appearing to her St. Gerardesca, on a certain time also remaining in devout prayer, rejoiced enough in the Lord, considering the gladness of the Blessed. She thought therefore in her mind, saying: Lord, when will my soul be with You, who have power over all things? and she desired to be dissolved, and to be with Christ, and could not. Then the Lord, regarding her faith, as a single door opened the heavens to her, from which the Saint saw so most radiant a splendor go forth, that she could not, on account of the exceeding brightness of the clearness, behold it with straight face. Her head being bowed here and there, at length her eyes being lifted in the midst of the splendor, the Saint openly saw the Son of God, every reverberation of the splendor being lulled. The Saint therefore standing with great joy, constantly poured forth prayers for certain Religious. Then the Lord opened His arms, and she saw here and there those Religious, namely standing between the arms of the Lord: and the Saint rendered for those Religious immense thanks to God the Father, she asks the same one's profit and nothing of all these things a little after she saw. After these things she began affectionately to seek, that one of them should be greater than the other in the kingdom of heaven; and thereupon the Lord and the blessed Virgin diligently she prayed, that they would benignly grant it to her. Then the Lord appeared in the air, and with Him a wondrous splendor: and approaching the Saint, He spoke to her saying: With great desire you desire to see your son great in my kingdom: and I tell you, that all things which you shall wish I will do: and he who loves you, loves me; and he who hears you, and obtains it, also hears me; and he who hates you, also hates me. All my power I will manifest to you: accordingly I sent John the Evangelist to you, that he might express to you mouth to mouth my will; and how the Son of God will come to you, about to confer on you fullness of consolation. When …
[68] Here at least one page being wanting, I supply the gap, by exhibiting an image of the Blessed, such as above, number 2, I said is still seen upon the high altar of St. Michael in the Borgo, in a certain panel, with many images of Patron Saints of the Camaldolese Order in the manner of a border ornamented around, individual ones filling individual as it were shells or niches. Of these one, as I said, is St. Gerardesca in the habit of the Camaldolese Order crowned with a diadem in the manner of the other Saints; as from there she was caused to be delineated for us by Fr. Gerard Capassi, of the Order of Servants of Bl. Mary, in the Pisan University Professor of Theology.
Furthermore on the following page is continued a certain vision concerning the venerable Villana, beheld praying before a certain image; Gerardesca asking of the holy Virgins standing by, who then was the woman, praying (as has been said) before the feet of the icon. And they answered saying: That woman is Lady Villana, who prays for the Pisan city. And straightway they descending from the oratory, there came a multitude of holy Apostles, Patriarchs, and Angels, having lighted wax candles in their hands. But again the Saint asked of them, why they had candles in their hands. And the answer being received, that they had come for the sake of a procession to be made, since the prayer of the aforesaid Villana was heard; she understands the prayers of the Venerable Villana to be heard. she saw Bl. John the Evangelist celebrate Mass in that church. And after these things they all went with them and the Saint, with hymns and lights, into eternal life, offering wax candles at the feet of our Lady. Then the Saint saw there Lady Villana, and received a sign from someone, who said to her: Behold I give you a sign, that you may believe all things which you have seen. From today on the third day, Lady Villana with three candles, that they may burn on the feast of the Annunciation of the blessed Virgin, will come to your house: and it was done so.
[69] She wonders at the power of God shining even in straw. On a certain day the Saint was in her house, fervent in the Holy Spirit, nor could she express in words the power of the Deity, which she pondered in mind. And regarding one little straw, she said: O little straw, how great is the power of God, which remains in you! And she was remaining in so great a fervor of spirit, that in heaven and on earth and everywhere she sought the divine power, wondering in these things that they were so exalted everywhere and perfect. To the glorious Virgin too she rendered immense praises, who deserved such great grace from God, that He who governs and sustains heaven and earth, in her womb wonderfully bore the Lord Jesus Christ. And regarding one little straw, she often said: O little straw, truly the Lord is in you. Then the Lord seeing her faith, showed her in all things His perfect power, even in that little straw. There appeared moreover to the Saint in that little straw the whole eternal life with the omnipotence of God.
[70] She recited sometime of the holy Angels and the supernal city, saying: There are nine mountains, in which separately remain the nine orders of Angels. The first therefore of the mountains is called Sardius, she sees 9 mountains of the Angelic choirs; the second Topaz, the third Jasper, the fourth Chrysolite, the fifth Onyx, the sixth Beryl, the seventh Sapphire, the eighth Carbuncle, the ninth Emerald. But these mountains are within the heavenly city of Jerusalem, irradiated with great splendors; nor are stones of any other appearance or kind found in them. And four rivers pass through the midst of the city, having most fluid waters, like most pure gold and silver: but from their waves results immense joy, and the precious stones exult. And on their banks the Apostles and Evangelists stand, and the Archbishoprics which are held of greater dignity in heaven, on account of the ornament of those rivers, there are wonderfully placed and founded. But those waters through the midst of the city, as has been said, flow from four mountains: and there, those who are greater in eternal life, gloriously stay.
[71] Again she said: On the feast of the Annunciation of the blessed Virgin, with immense festivities the Saints rejoice, and their gladness on the feast of the Annunciation: and with new jubilations are gladdened. Then our Lord with the holy Apostles adorn our Lady with most precious ornaments; and going to that order of Angels, in which St. Gabriel remains, they likewise adorn him. Then they lead him to the place of our Lady, bearing above his head a certain mantle, set on four spears, and on each spear was a banner. And they set his seat near the throne of the Lady, and the whole eternal life did reverence to them. On that day the Saints honor the Angels with great praises, since they have deigned to be their advocates: and they place them reverently in seats, and obey them with great subjections. The Angels too venerate Bl. Gabriel with great obeisances, and each Angel is called by his proper name.
[72] Likewise on a certain day she set herself in prayer, having most full consolation. And when she wished a little to rest from prayer, she was lying in her little bed: and looking into heaven, she thought in her heart, how the Lord Jesus Christ remains in heaven, likewise Christ on the Pontifical seat, and whether He sits as Pontiff; and she said; O how blessed are you Apostles, who were with God on earth, and humbled He washed your feet! And straightway her soul was in heaven, and she saw the Lord Jesus Christ, sitting on a lofty throne, adorned with Pontifical ornaments. And there was before Him an altar with most rare ornaments, and on each horn of it was one banner, composed in honor of the four Evangelists. Amid these things the Saint desired to behold the Apostles, and said; Where are the Apostles? Then the Lord, regarding her faith, His arms opened and His mantle lifted, showed the Saint His most sacred breast: and there was our Lady, with St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist with five Apostles on one side, and Bl. Peter the Apostle with the other Apostles on the other side standing.
[73] At a certain time in Lent there was a strong wind, likewise blood from the icon of St. John the Baptist, and the Saint was regarding the icon of Bl. John the Baptist. And the cloth, which was at the feet of the icon, being lifted on account of the wind, she saw the foot of Bl. John visibly incarnate: and rising, with haste she ran to it. Then she set her eyes upon the foot, and wept greatly, and fell as if extinct. And a little after rising, she found that cloth wholly bloody.
[74] Moreover at a certain time on Holy Saturday, when she entered the church of St. Savinus that she might hear the Office, looking into heaven, she saw, God permitting, and the honor paid to the Mother of God on Holy Saturday. all the Saints and Angels render thanks to the glorious Virgin, on account of the sincere faith which she had in her son, when now the whole world remained in error. And after this she heard the Lord saying, how He loves and has loved His mother: and that all the Saints, and Angels, and the four Elders could not so honor her, that thence they should satisfy the Deity: but the Divinity indeed satisfies itself.
[75] On a certain night remaining in her little bed, inflamed with love of the Holy Spirit she said: Lord, she is visited by Christ and His Apostles. come to me: nor yet did she go out of the little bed. And she began most devoutly to ask our Lady and Bl. John the Evangelist, that they would ask the Son of God, that He would deign to come to her: and going out of her chamber, she prayed most attentively for her friends. Forthwith moreover she was in heaven, in a certain place in which she could only from afar see the Son of God. Then she said: Why can I not, Lord, close at hand see Your face? Then the Lord, assenting to her devotion, with the twelve Apostles, seventy Disciples, and the Greater Ones of eternal life, came to meet her: and for the fuller consolation of her, He said to Bl. John the Evangelist: O Apostle and beloved of God, how dear above all I have held you! for to you I have revealed all the heavenly secrets: regard and see, how these of St. Savinus pierce my hand, by making
scandal to this one, and He pointed to the Saint. Likewise He showed her her husband …
The rest, and the more important for history, are wanting.