Blessed Piriteo Malvezzi

Biography

Blessed Piriteo Malvezzi, also known as Piriteo of Bologna, was born in Bologna, Italy. He became a devout member of the Servants of Mary, a religious order dedicated to the service of God and the Virgin Mary.

Piriteo's strong faith and passion for spreading the Gospel led him to become a travelling evangelist. He embarked on a mission to confront heresy in Bohemia, where he fearlessly preached the teachings of the Catholic Church and worked tirelessly to combat false doctrines. However, his courageous efforts did not come without consequences, as he was repeatedly imprisoned for his work.

Despite being imprisoned, Piriteo's faith was unwavering. It is said that during his time in captivity, he was miraculously freed on multiple occasions by an angel, allowing him to continue his important mission of spreading the Word of God. Undeterred by the dangers he faced, he remained committed to his calling.

After his mission in Bohemia, Piriteo journeyed eastward, ultimately arriving in the Tartary region of central Asia. In this unfamiliar and challenging territory, he fearlessly preached Christianity to those who had not yet heard the Good News. His dedication to the faith was exemplary, as he sought to bring salvation and hope to the people in those distant lands.

Unfortunately, Piriteo's unwavering commitment to his faith eventually led to his martyrdom. He was executed for refusing to renounce his Christian beliefs, displaying a steadfastness that continues to inspire believers to this day. On September 4, 1495, Piriteo was beheaded, bearing witness to his faith and his love for Christ.

Despite his tragic death, Piriteo's legacy lives on. While the exact location of his grave has been lost over time, he is venerated by the Catholic Church for his steadfast devotion to God and his courageous evangelistic efforts. Although he has not yet been officially beatified, his life serves as a testament to the power of faith and the willingness to sacrifice everything for the sake of Christ.

His feast day is celebrated on September 4 by the Servites, the religious order to which he belonged. Additionally, in the Basilica of Santa Maria dei Servi, located in Bologna, Italy, the first Sunday in September is dedicated to honoring and remembering the life and martyrdom of Blessed Piriteo Malvezzi.

Blessed Piriteo Malvezzi's unwavering dedication to spreading the Gospel, his unwavering faith in the face of persecution, and his ultimate sacrifice for his beliefs continue to serve as an inspiration for Catholics around the world. May his example encourage us all to live out our faith fervently and fearlessly.