Blessed Francesco Mottola

Biography

Blessed Francesco Mottola, also known as Blessed Francesco Mottola of Tropea, was born on January 3, 1901, in Tropea, Vibo Valentia, Italy. He was the son of Antonio and Concetta Braghó Mottola. Tragically, at the tender age of 12, Francesco's mother took her own life in 1913, leaving a profound impact on his family.

Despite this heartbreaking loss, Francesco remained steadfast in his faith and pursued his studies. He received his education in Tropea and Catanzaro, Italy, where he displayed a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary under her title Madonna di Romania. Additionally, he was known for spending extensive periods of time in Eucharistic Adoration, cultivating a profound love for the Blessed Sacrament.

Francesco was ordained a priest for the diocese of Tropea on April 5, 1924. As a seminarian, he actively participated in Catholic Action and embraced its mission of bringing Christ's love to the world through acts of charity and evangelization.

In 1929, Father Francesco became the rector of the seminary in Tropea, a role he held until 1942. Throughout this period, he served as an exemplary teacher and preacher, sharing his deep spirituality and theological knowledge with his students. Additionally, he founded the Secular Institute of the Oblates of the Sacred Heart in 1930, a community dedicated to living out their Christian vocation in the secular world.

Father Francesco's devotion to charity led him to establish the Casa della CaritÖ, or House of Charity, in Tropea. Through this initiative, he provided assistance and support to those in need, embodying Christ's love and compassion.

However, Father Francesco's life took a challenging turn in 1942 when he became partially paralyzed. Due to his condition, he made the difficult decision to step down from his position at the seminary. Undeterred, he devoted the remaining 27 years of his life to organizing small groups and helping them to serve those who were marginalized and impoverished.

Blessed Francesco Mottola demonstrated extraordinary virtue and holiness throughout his life, inspiring those around him with his unwavering faith, selflessness, and commitment to serving others. His profound spiritual journey and profound impact on his local community led to his recognition as a model of Christian virtue.

On December 17, 2007, Pope Benedict XVI declared Francesco Mottola venerable, acknowledging his heroic virtues. Then, on October 10, 2021, Pope Francis beatified him in a joyous ceremony held in the Cathedral of the Maria Santissima di Romania, Tropea, Italy. The beatification was presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, solidifying Blessed Francesco Mottola's place among the esteemed blessed of the Catholic Church.

Today, Blessed Francesco Mottola is remembered as a shining example of love, compassion, and unwavering dedication to the service of God and neighbor. His life continues to inspire countless individuals to live out their faith with fervor and to selflessly serve the needs of others. His feast day is celebrated on June 29, and some calendars also recognize June 13 to commemorate his profound impact on the spiritual and charitable life of the Church.