Blessed Pietro Bonilli

Biography

Blessed Pietro Bonilli, also known as Peter Bonilli, was born on 15 March 1841 in San Lorendo di Trevi, Perugia, Italy. He was a devout priest who dedicated his life to serving the Catholic Church and the marginalized in society. Ordained in 1863, he served as a priest in the diocese of Spoleto, Italy.

After his ordination, Blessed Pietro Bonilli was appointed as the parish priest in Cannaiola, Trevi, Italy. He passionately served this community for an impressive 34 years, tirelessly working for the betterment of the local people. During his time as a parish priest, he came across numerous orphans, the deaf, the blind, and homeless individuals who were in desperate need of care and education.

Feeling called to address these pressing social issues, Blessed Pietro Bonilli founded the Suore della Sacra Famiglia (Sisters of the Holy Family) on 13 May 1888. This religious congregation was established with the primary mission of providing assistance, education, and support to orphans, the deaf, the blind, and especially needy girls. Under his guidance, the Sisters of the Holy Family worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those who were often overlooked or forgotten by society.

In recognition of his exceptional commitment to the Church and his unwavering dedication to helping the marginalized, Blessed Pietro Bonilli was appointed as a canon of the cathedral of Spoleto, Italy in 1898. This prestigious position reflected his deep faith and his influential role within the diocese.

Blessed Pietro Bonilli passed away on 5 January 1935 in Spoleto, Perugia, Italy, at the age of 93. His death was attributed to natural causes, marking the end of a life lived in service to God and his fellow humans. The relics of Blessed Pietro Bonilli were enshrined in the church of Michael the Archangel in Cannaiola di Trevi, Italy, where he had faithfully served as a parish priest for many years.

The outstanding virtues and exemplary life of Blessed Pietro Bonilli did not go unnoticed. He was venerated on 30 June 1986 by Pope John Paul II, who declared his virtues as heroic. This recognition by the Pope paved the way for his beatification, which took place on 24 April 1988, also performed by Pope John Paul II.

Blessed Pietro Bonilli's life and work continue to inspire many. His selfless devotion to the service of others, particularly the vulnerable, remains a testament to the Christian values of love, compassion, and social justice. His legacy lives on through the Sisters of the Holy Family, who carry forward his mission to this day.