Blessed Dominic Barberi

Biography

Blessed Dominic Barberi, also known as Dominic of the Mother of God, was born on June 22, 1792, in the town of Viterbo, Italy. He was born into a poor farm family and tragically orphaned by the age of eight. Dominic was then raised by his aunt and uncle on a farm in Merlano, Italy. Despite his humble beginnings, Dominic's deep spirituality was evident from a young age as he spent much of his time in prayer while tending to the flocks as a shepherd boy.

During the period of the Napoleonic repression in France, many Passionist priests were exiled. It was through encounters with these priests that Dominic's life took a different course. He spent time praying with the Passionists and during one of these prayer sessions, he received a divine message indicating that he would work in Northern Europe and England.

In a pivotal moment in 1814, just before he was set to enter into an arranged marriage, Dominic made the courageous decision to slip away from his family and join the Passionists. He took on the religious name Dominic of the Mother of God to signify his devotion to the Virgin Mary.

Despite lacking a formal education, Dominic demonstrated an exceptional aptitude for learning. He quickly grasped philosophy and theology during his studies with the Passionists. On March 1, 1821, he was ordained a priest in Rome.

Dominic's intellectual pursuits extended beyond his studies. He became a distinguished teacher, spiritual director, and writer on theology and homiletics. One of his notable works focused on integrating modern science into philosophical studies. Although this idea faced condemnation at the time, it is now recognized as having paved the way for some of the reforms of Pope Leo XIII.

Throughout his life, Dominic felt drawn to England and the English people. He devoted himself to learning the English language and sought out any English visitors to Rome with whom he could converse. In 1833, he was appointed as a delegate to the general chapter of his Order, highlighting his growing influence within the Passionist community.

In collaboration with Father Peter Magagnotto, Father Seraphim Giammaria, and Brother Crispin Cotta, Dominic established the first Passionist presence outside of Italy in Ere, Belgium, in 1840. However, his heart remained set on working in England. Finally, in Holy Week of 1842, Dominic was assigned to establish the first Passionist residence in England.

Dominic Barberi became a tireless preacher and home missioner in England, dedicating himself to the conversion of anti-Catholic England into unity with Rome. During his ministry, he welcomed many individuals into the Catholic faith, including notable figures such as John Henry Cardinal Newman and Father George Spencer. Both Newman and Spencer went on to make significant contributions to the Catholic Church, and their Causes for beatification are currently being investigated.

Blessed Dominic Barberi passed away on August 27, 1849, at Reading, Berkshire, England, suffering a heart attack at 3 pm. He was buried in the Passionist church in Saint Helen's, Lancashire, England. For his exceptional holiness and contributions to the Church, he was venerated on May 16, 1937, by Pope Pius XI and beatified on October 27, 1963, by Pope Paul VI in Rome, Italy.

Blessed Dominic Barberi's life is a testament to his unwavering faith, intelligence, and deep commitment to the Catholic Church. His missionary zeal and dedication to the conversion of souls, particularly in England, continue to inspire Catholics worldwide.