Meet Mariolina Molla
A cherished daughter of the Molla family
Mariolina Molla (11 December 1957 - 12 February 1964) was the second child of Saint Gianna Beretta Molla and Pietro Molla, and the beloved sister of Pierluigi, Laura and Gianna Emanuela.
Although she lived for only six years, Mariolina's life remains a treasured part of the Molla family's story. Through the love she received from her parents and siblings, and through the sorrow that followed her passing, her life continues to remind us of the beauty and sacredness of every human person.
Mariolina spent her childhood in a home where Jesus Christ was at the centre of family life. Faith was woven into ordinary daily living through prayer, charity, trust in God's providence and the loving example of her parents. Surrounded by such love, she enjoyed a happy childhood and was dearly cherished by her family.
When Mariolina was four years old, her mother, Saint Gianna, died after the birth of Gianna Emanuela. This heartbreaking loss forever changed the life of the Molla family. Pietro, now a widower, devoted himself to raising his children with the same love, faith and stability that had always characterised their home.
Less than two years later, another sorrow followed. In February 1964, Mariolina died at the age of six after a brief illness. Her death became another profound cross for Pietro and his children. Even amid such suffering, Pietro remained steadfast in his faith, accepting these trials with humility and continuing to fulfil his vocation as a devoted father.
Today, Mariolina continues to be lovingly remembered by her family. Her sister, Gianna Emanuela, has expressed the desire that Mariolina's memory be preserved alongside that of their parents, recognising that she, too, forms part of the beautiful witness of the Molla family. The Saint Gianna Beretta Molla and Pietro Molla Foundation likewise seeks to honour and perpetuate the memory of Saint Gianna, Pietro and their daughter, Mariolina.
Today, some of the faithful also include Mariolina in their private prayers, asking for her intercession. This quiet devotion reflects the love and affection with which she continues to be remembered by many who have come to know the story of the Molla family.
Though her earthly life was brief, Mariolina remains a cherished daughter of the Molla family. Her memory reminds us that every human life, no matter how long or short, is a precious gift from God. In remembering Mariolina alongside Saint Gianna and Pietro, we are invited to reflect on the beauty of family, the mystery of suffering, and the Christian hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ.
"Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 19:14
