Saint Giovanni of Triora

Biography

Saint Giovanni of Triora, also known as Francesco Maria Lantrua, was born on 15 March 1760 in Triora, Imperia, Italy. He was the son of Antonio Maria Lantrua and Maria Pasqua Ferraironi. Francesco received his education in Barnabite schools and later joined the Franciscan Friars Minor in Rome on 9 March 1777, just before his 17th birthday. Taking the name Giovanni, he went on to be ordained as a priest in 1784. After his ordination, Father Giovanni taught theology in Tivoli and Tarquinia, Italy. He also served as the Superior of Franciscan convents in Tarquinia, Velletri, and Montecelio. However, in 1799, he felt called to serve as a missionary and was sent to China. In Macau, Father Giovanni dedicated himself to learning the language, understanding Chinese culture, and immersing himself in the local community. He dressed like the locals and adapted his approach to effectively spread the teachings of Christianity. His missionary work extended over several years, during which he ministered to the people of Macau. Tragically, in the summer of 1815, the Chinese authorities initiated a campaign to suppress and persecute Christianity. On 26 July 1815, immediately after celebrating Mass, Father Giovanni was arrested alongside several of his parishioners. He endured months of torture and was repeatedly ordered to renounce his faith. Despite the brutal treatment he endured, he steadfastly refused to renounce his beliefs. Father Giovanni's unwavering commitment and resilience in the face of persecution ultimately led to his martyrdom. On 7 February 1816, he was tied to a cross and strangled to death in Ch’angsha Fu, Hunan, China. His remains were initially buried in the cathedral of San Paolo in Macau, China, but were later re-interred in the Basilica of Santa Maria in Ara Coeli, Rome, Italy. The recognition of Saint Giovanni's martyrdom came on 25 March 1900 when Pope Leo XIII decreed his veneration. On 27 May 1900, Pope Leo XIII beatified him, acknowledging his heroic sacrifice as a witness to the Christian faith. Finally, on 1 October 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized Saint Giovanni of Triora, affirming his status as a saint within the Catholic Church. While Saint Giovanni's patronage is not explicitly recorded, his witness and intercession are sought by many faithful Catholics who admire his courage and dedication to his faith. His feast days are celebrated on 7 February and 28 September, in commemoration of his martyrdom and as one of the Martyrs of China.