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Feast Day: March 20
Birth: September 4, 1885
Death: March 20, 1949
Blessed Nikollô Prennushi, also known as Vin√ßenc, was born on 4 September 1885 in Shkodrô, Albania. He entered the Franciscan Friars Minor in 1900, where he took the name Vin√ßenc. After completing his studies in theology and philosophy at Innsbruck, Austria, he was ordained a priest in Salzburg on 19 March 1908.
Throughout his life, Blessed Nikollô displayed a deep passion for knowledge and writing. He actively engaged with society, expressing his views on political and international matters through his writings for newspapers and magazines. Additionally, he dedicated himself to preserving Albanian folklore, recognizing the value of cultural heritage.
In recognition of his dedication and leadership qualities, Pope Pius XI chose Nikollô Prennushi as the bishop of Sapô, Albania on 27 February 1936. He served diligently in this position until he was appointed as the archbishop of Durrôs, Albania by Pope Pius XII on 26 June 1940.
Tragically, his unwavering loyalty to Rome and refusal to embrace the national church formed by the Communists led to his arrest on 19 May 1947. Following a show trial, he was sentenced to 20 years in prison. Enduring constant torture, abuse, and neglect, Blessed Nikollô valiantly upheld his faith. He became a martyr, sacrificing his life for his unwavering loyalty to the Catholic Church.
Blessed Nikollô Prennushi faced unimaginable hardships during his time in prison, and his health rapidly declined due to the abuse he endured. He ultimately succumbed to death on 20 March 1949 in the prison of Durrôs, Albania.
Recognizing his martyrdom and his steadfast commitment to his faith, Pope Francis venerated Blessed Nikollô on 26 April 2016, declaring him a martyr. On 5 November 2016, Pope Francis beatified him, bestowing this honor in a ceremony held at the Square of the Cathedral of Shôn Shtjefnit in Shkodôr, Albania. The beatification ceremony was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato.
Blessed Nikollô Prennushi's life serves as a testament to his unwavering faith, his dedication to education, and his commitment to justice and truth. He stands as a shining example of martyrdom and as a source of inspiration for all those who face persecution for their religious beliefs.