Blessed Secondo Giovanni Pollo

Biography

Blessed Secondo Giovanni Pollo, also known as Father Secondo, was born on 2 January 1908 in Caresanablot, Vercelli, Italy. From a young age, he felt a strong calling to the priesthood and began his education at the Brothers of the Christian Schools. At the age of 11, Secondo entered the diocesan junior seminary in Vercelli, Italy. His dedication to his calling led him to pursue further studies in theology in Rome, Italy.

In Rome, Secondo attended the Lombard Seminary, the Pontifical Academy of Saint Thomas, and the Pontifical Gregorian University. He dedicated himself to his studies and deepened his knowledge of philosophy and theology. Secondo was ordained as a priest on 15 August 1931 in the archdiocese of Vercelli.

After his ordination, Father Secondo served as a teacher of philosophy and theology. He began his ministry as a spiritual director in the minor seminary and later moved on to the senior seminary in Vercelli. One of his notable contributions was as a diocesan assistant of the Catholic Action, where he developed an innovative youth ministry. His focus on actively engaging young people in their faith made him an anomaly among his brother priests.

When World War II broke out, Father Secondo felt compelled to serve as a military chaplain. He enlisted and was assigned to the 3rd Alpine battalion, known as "Val Ghisone," as a lieutenant. In this role, he became a spiritual leader and father figure to the young men in his unit. His selflessness and dedication earned him the respect and admiration of all.

In 1941, Father Secondo's battalion was sent to Montenegro, where they became involved in combat in the Dragali area. It was during this time that tragedy struck. In an act of incredible bravery, Father Secondo was shot while trying to move an injured soldier. Despite his efforts to save others, the bullet unfortunately nicked his femoral artery, causing him to bleed to death. He met his death on 26 December 1941, holding a rosary and holy oils.

The military recognized Father Secondo's outstanding courage and awarded him a posthumous silver star. His ultimate sacrifice highlighted his unwavering commitment to his faith and his fellow soldiers.

Father Secondo was initially buried in the cemetery of Scagliari near CÖttaro (modern Kotor) in Montenegro. In 1961, his remains were re-interred in the cemetery of his hometown of Caresanablot, Italy. Later, in 1968, he was laid to rest in the cathedral of Saint Eusebius in the archdiocese of Vercelli, Italy.

The virtuous life led by Father Secondo was officially recognized on 18 December 1997 when Pope John Paul II declared his heroic virtues. Subsequently, he was beatified on 23 May 1998 by Pope John Paul II in a ceremony held at Piazza Duomo in Vercelli, Italy. Blessed Secondo Giovanni Pollo's feast days are celebrated on 26 December and 4 January (Vercelli, Italy).

His courageous and selfless example continues to inspire individuals, especially young people, to actively live out their Christian faith and strive for lives of compassion and service.