Blessed Luigi Monza

Biography

Blessed Luigi Monza, born on 22 June 1898 in Cislago, Varese, Italy, was a devout Catholic priest known for his selfless service to the poor, the sick, and the unjustly accused. He came from a humble farming family and felt a calling to the priesthood from a young age. At the age of 18, he entered the seminary and was ordained in the archdiocese of Milan on 19 September 1925.

Initially assigned to a parish in Vedano Olona, Italy, Father Luigi's life took a dramatic turn when he was falsely accused of planning an attack on a local Fascist official. He faced four months of imprisonment, enduring the hardships with faith and resilience.

Released from prison, Father Luigi was re-assigned to the Shrine of Our Lady of Miracles in Saronno in 1929. There, he dedicated himself to youth ministry, becoming a spiritual guide and mentor to the younger generation. Through his teachings and caring guidance, he instilled in them a deep love for their faith and for one another, echoing the sense of community found in the early Christian communities.

In 1936, Father Luigi was once again re-assigned, this time to the parish of San Giovanni in Lecco, Italy. He continued his work with youth and families, emphasizing the importance of strong family ties and the Christian values of love and compassion.

Known for his extraordinary devotion to the welfare of others, Father Luigi founded the women's Istituto Secolare delle Piccole Apostole della CaritÖ (Secular Institute of the Little Apostles of Charity) in 1937. This institute aimed to serve the poor, the sick, and those falsely accused and persecuted, embodying the teachings of Christ on love and mercy.

Together with the members of the Secular Institute, Father Luigi established the "Our Family" Association, which focused on providing education and medical assistance to impoverished and disabled children. The efforts of these two groups have continued to make a difference in the lives of countless individuals, spreading from Italy to countries such as Sudan, Brazil, Ecuador, China, Morocco, and Palestine.

Father Luigi Monza's dedication and exemplary life of service gained recognition, and on 20 December 2003, he was declared venerable by Pope John Paul II for his heroic virtues. Later, on 30 April 2006, Pope Benedict XVI beatified him, acknowledging his sanctity and the impact of his noble deeds. The beatification ceremony was celebrated in Milan, Italy, honoring Father Luigi's remarkable life and his unwavering commitment to living the Gospel.

Tragically, on 29 September 1954, Father Luigi Monza passed away from a heart attack in Lecco, Italy. He was laid to rest in the province of Como, Italy, where he now rests as a beloved figure of faith and a model of a parish priest dedicated to the welfare and spiritual growth of his parishioners.