Blessed Nazju Falzon

Biography

Blessed Nazju Falzon, also known as Ignatius Falzon, was born on 1 July 1813 in Valletta, Malta. He was the son of Francis Joseph, a judge, and Mary Teresa, the daughter of a judge. Ignatius came from a family deeply rooted in the legal profession, as all three of his brothers also became lawyers, with two of them later entering the priesthood.

From a young age, Ignatius showed a deep commitment to his faith. At the age of 15, he received minor orders, demonstrating his devotion and readiness to serve the Church. Ignatius pursued his theological studies and earned a degree in theology. However, despite his qualifications, he did not feel worthy of the priesthood. Although encouraged by his bishop, Ignatius ultimately chose not to take the final step of becoming ordained.

Despite not becoming a priest, Ignatius found other ways to serve the Church and God's people. He dedicated his time to teaching catechism to children at the Institute of the Good Shepherd. Noticing the needs of the poorer children, Ignatius also extended his help by providing them with financial assistance.

Ignatius became known for his outreach and ministry to the British soldiers and sailors stationed in Malta. He would actively seek them out by visiting the docks and other areas where they were assigned. These men, often living in rough districts surrounded by bars and prostitution, were influenced by Ignatius' genuine care and interest in their spiritual well-being. When he found British soldiers and sailors who were interested in the faith, Ignatius invited them to his home for religious services.

As the number of men grew, Ignatius decided to move them to the Jesuit Church in Valletta. In order to facilitate their understanding of the Catholic faith, Ignatius imported simple religious works in various vernacular languages. These works were distributed among the men, allowing them to deepen their knowledge and devotion.

Ignatius' contributions to the Church extended beyond his outreach to the British soldiers and sailors. He authored a book titled "The Comfort of the Christian Soul," which undoubtedly provided spiritual solace and guidance to many. Through his dedication and evangelization efforts, Ignatius converted hundreds of individuals to the Catholic faith.

For those who decided to stay on the island, Ignatius became their pastor, solemnizing their marriages, baptizing their children, and delivering homilies at their funerals. His presence and guidance accompanied these individuals throughout their lives, offering them continuous spiritual support.

Blessed Nazju Falzon died on his feast day, 1 July 1865, in Valletta, Malta, at the age of 52. He succumbed to cancer, a battle he fought valiantly. Ignatius was buried in the family vault located in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception in the Church of the Franciscan Minors, Mary of Jesus, in Valletta.

On 23 October 1987, Pope John Paul II recognized the heroic virtues of Ignatius Falzon, formally venerated him, and declared him to be "Blessed." This beatification ceremony took place on 9 May 2001, during the pontificate of Pope John Paul II. The beatification miracle attributed to Blessed Nazju Falzon involved the complete disappearance of cancer in a 64-year-old man in 1981, testifying to the intercession and power of this holy man.

Blessed Nazju Falzon's life stands as a testament to his unwavering faith, selflessness, and deep commitment to bringing Christ to others. His tireless efforts to evangelize and support those in need continue to inspire and guide believers around the world.