Blessed Olinto Marella

Biography

Blessed Olinto Marella, also known as Giuseppe Olinto Marella, was born on 14 June 1882 in Pallestrina, Italy. He was one of three children of a wealthy physician who unfortunately passed away when Olinto was just ten years old. Fortunately, he received a good education, thanks to his uncle, Archbishop Giuseppe Marella of Pallestrina, Italy, who took on the responsibility and ensured that Olinto received proper guidance.

Olinto Marella pursued his studies in Rome, Italy, where he became classmates with the future Pope John XXIII. This friendship would have a significant impact on his life and vocation. On 17 December 1904, Olinto was ordained as a priest, and he devoted himself to teaching seminarians in Chioggia, Italy, while also engaging in the education of small children in his parish.

Throughout his life, Blessed Olinto Marella was driven by a deep thirst for knowledge. He continued studying history, philosophy, and theology while working as a teacher in various cities across Italy. His passion for learning was balanced with his dedication to the Church and the people he served.

In his role as a parish priest in the Diocese of Bologna, Italy, Blessed Olinto tirelessly cared for the poor, homeless, and outcast of the city. He had a particular concern for those who suffered and sought to address their needs by finding funds for shelters, homes, and chapels. His commitment was not limited to providing material support but extended to spiritual guidance as well. Blessed Olinto often used a simple stool on the street as his pulpit, where he would preach to all passersby, urging them to reject indifference to the suffering of others.

Blessed Olinto Marella's evangelical approach, however, was met with resistance from some of his brother priests who believed it went too far. Yet, he found unwavering support from his friend, Pope John XXIII, who understood and appreciated the depth of his compassion and zeal for spreading the Gospel.

On 6 September 1969, Blessed Olinto Marella passed away in San Lazzaro di Savena, Italy, due to natural causes. His remains were re-interred in 1980 in the Holy Family Church in San Lazzaro di Savena, a testament to the impact he had on the community.

Recognizing his exemplary life and virtues, the veneration of Blessed Olinto Marella began on 27 March 2013, with a decree of heroic virtues issued by Pope Francis. His beatification took place on 4 October 2020, presided over by Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi in a ceremony held at Piazza Maggiore in Bologna, Italy.

Blessed Olinto Marella serves as a shining example of a dedicated priest and teacher. His unwavering commitment to serving and advocating for the marginalized and his passion for evangelization continue to inspire others to follow in his footsteps.