Maria Author:Arleta Richardson Maria Mannoia desired one thing in life: to become like Christ and share in His sufferings. In spite of insults, persecution and threats, Maria was able to say, "But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved" (Hebrews 10:39). Because of this woman's tireless effort to know God'... more »;s will above all things, the first Italian mission was founded in Melrose Park, Illinois, and an entire village was "set on its ear!"« less