Blessed Philip Rinaldi

Biography

Blessed Philip Rinaldi, also known as Filippo Rinaldi or Philippi Rinaldi, was born on 28 May 1856 in Lu, Monferrato, Piedmont, Italy. At the age of five, Philip had a fortuitous encounter with Don Bosco, the future saint, and immediately recognized the importance of this meeting. Although he initially considered a religious vocation, he was torn between that path and the possibility of marriage.

It wasn't until he turned 22 that Philip made the decision to become a disciple of Don Bosco. The Christian Brothers recognized his potential and appointed him as an assistant novice master even before he took his vows as a Salesian on 13 August 1880. Despite not intending to become a priest, his superiors encouraged him to study and ordained him on 23 December 1882.

Philip Rinaldi's role within the Salesian community expanded throughout his life. He was entrusted with the responsibility of guiding "late" vocations, individuals who, like himself, joined the Order as adults. In 1889, he became the Director of the Salesian community in Sarriá, Spain, where he successfully opened several new houses and attracted numerous new vocations. From 1892 to 1901, Philip served as the Salesian provincial director in Spain, during which time he helped the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians expand in the country.

On 1 April 1901, Philip Rinaldi was appointed as the Vicar-General of the Salesians. During his tenure, he founded centers dedicated to ministering to the daily and spiritual needs of young women. Philip also played a significant role in the establishment of the World Federation of Past-Pupils and assisted the Salesian Sisters. Furthermore, he organized the Salesian International Congress of 1911 and aided in the founding of the group that would later become the Volunteers of Don Bosco, in collaboration with the Zelatrici di Maria Ausiliatrice.

Philip's contributions to the Salesian community led to his appointment as the Rector Major of the Salesians on 24 May 1922. As the third successor to Don Bosco, he worked diligently to bring the visionary teachings of Don Bosco into the 20th century and to inspire the Salesians to adapt to the times while staying true to their spirituality. Philip encouraged young Salesians to acquire foreign language skills and familiarize themselves with different cultures to become more effective missionaries.

During his time as Rector Major, Philip Rinaldi sought the endorsement of Pope Pius XI for the "indulgence for sanctified work" and undertook extensive travels to preach, encourage vocations, and promote spirituality among the laity. Under his leadership, the number of Salesians increased from 6,000 to 10,000, and 250 new houses and centers were established. Additionally, Philip played a crucial role in the canonization process of his mentor, Don Bosco, who was eventually recognized as a saint.

On 5 December 1931, Blessed Philip Rinaldi passed away in Turin, Italy, due to natural causes. He was initially buried in the cemetery in Turin. However, following the miraculous healing and regeneration of the jaw of Sister Mary Carla, who was shot in the face in April 1945 during the final days of World War II, his remains were re-interred in the Basilica of Mary Our Help in Turin. Pope John Paul II venerated Philip Rinaldi on 3 January 1987, and he was beatified by the same pontiff on 29 April 1990, with Sister Mary Carla's healing being recognized as his beatification miracle.

Blessed Philip Rinaldi's life is an exemplary representation of dedication to the Salesian Order, the spread of Salesian spirituality, and unwavering trust in God.