Bl John Baptist Scalabrini, Pray for us! |
Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini was an Italian Catholic bishop and founder of the Congregation of the Missionaries of Saint Charles Borromeo, also known as the Scalabrinian Fathers and Sisters. Here's an overview of his life and contributions:
Early Life and Education: John Baptist Scalabrini was born on January 8, 1839, in Fino Mornasco, Italy. He was ordained a priest in 1863 after completing his theological studies.
Pastoral Ministry: As a priest, Scalabrini served in various pastoral roles, including as a parish priest and seminary professor. He was known for his dedication to the spiritual and material well-being of his parishioners, especially migrants and refugees.
Advocate for Migrants: Scalabrini's concern for migrants and their families grew as he witnessed the challenges they faced, including poverty, exploitation, and discrimination. He became a leading advocate for the rights and dignity of migrants and worked tirelessly to provide them with pastoral care and practical support.
Founding the Scalabrinian Congregation: In 1887, Scalabrini founded the Congregation of the Missionaries of Saint Charles Borromeo, also known as the Scalabrinian Fathers. The congregation was dedicated to serving migrants and refugees, providing them with spiritual guidance, education, and social services.
Expansion of the Congregation: Under Scalabrini's leadership, the Scalabrinian Congregation expanded rapidly, establishing missions, schools, and shelters for migrants in Italy and around the world. Scalabrini also founded the Scalabrini Sisters, a religious congregation dedicated to serving female migrants and their families.
Death and Beatification: John Baptist Scalabrini died on June 1, 1905, in Piacenza, Italy. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II on November 9, 1997, in recognition of his holiness and his dedicated service to migrants and refugees.
Legacy: Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini is revered as a patron saint of migrants and refugees. His life and work continue to inspire Catholics and people of goodwill to advocate for the rights and dignity of migrants and to work towards building a more inclusive and compassionate society..
Prayer to Blessed John Baptist Scalabrini:
Amen."
.