Feast Day: April 3
Patronage: Abandoned children, educators, orphans, the poor, and those suffering from AIDS
Early Life and Vocation
Saint Luigi Scrosoppi was born on August 4, 1804, in Udine, Italy, into a deeply religious family. His father, Domenico, was a jeweler, while his mother, Antonia Lazzarini, instilled in her children a strong faith. Luigi grew up in a home where charity and devotion were daily practices. Two of his older brothers became diocesan priests, and this profoundly influenced his own desire to serve God.
At the age of 12, Luigi entered the seminary in Udine and was ordained a priest in 1827 at the age of 23. He immediately devoted himself to caring for the poor and marginalized, particularly young girls in Udine who had been abandoned or were suffering from extreme poverty.
Charitable Works and Founding of the Sisters of Providence
In the early 19th century, Udine suffered from economic hardship, wars, and social instability, leaving many children orphaned or destitute. Fr. Luigi, along with his brother Carlo and a group of devout women, established homes to provide shelter, education, and Christian formation to these vulnerable children.
In 1837, he helped consolidate these efforts by founding the Congregation of the Sisters of Providence, a religious community dedicated to the care of poor and abandoned girls. The congregation flourished despite many difficulties, including financial struggles and opposition from secular authorities. Luigi placed his complete trust in Divine Providence, often saying:
“Courage! Let us go ahead with confidence in God’s Providence.”
Through prayer, perseverance, and his tireless work, the congregation expanded its charitable efforts, providing education, homes, and employment training to countless children.
Later Years and Deep Spirituality
As the congregation grew, Fr. Luigi sought to deepen his own spiritual life. In 1846, he joined the Oratory of Saint Philip Neri, a society of priests dedicated to prayer, preaching, and works of charity. This association helped him to cultivate a life of humility, simplicity, and profound union with God.
Despite ongoing struggles, including political unrest and financial hardships, Luigi remained steadfast in his mission. He tirelessly served the poor, often giving away his own possessions to help those in need. As he grew older, he became a model of patience and trust in Divine Providence.
In his final years, he endured great physical suffering but remained joyful and at peace. On April 3, 1884, after blessing his Sisters and encouraging them to remain faithful to their mission, he died at the age of 79. His last words were:
“Charity! Charity!”
Canonization and Legacy
Saint Luigi Scrosoppi was beatified by Pope John Paul II on October 4, 1981, and later canonized on June 10, 2001. He is especially venerated for his dedication to the poor and suffering, particularly children.
A significant miracle attributed to his intercession was the miraculous healing of a South African young man suffering from AIDS, leading to his canonization. Today, his Congregation of the Sisters of Providence continues his mission in Italy and beyond, serving the poor, sick, and abandoned with the same spirit of trust in God’s Providence.
Spiritual Lessons from Saint Luigi Scrosoppi
- Total Trust in Divine Providence – Despite hardships, he never wavered in his faith that God would provide.
- Love for the Poor and Abandoned – He saw Christ in the suffering and devoted his life to serving them.
- Perseverance in Difficulties – He endured financial struggles, political unrest, and personal suffering with patience.
- A Life of Humility and Simplicity – Despite his success, he remained humble, always attributing his work to God.
Prayer to Saint Luigi Scrosoppi
O Saint Luigi Scrosoppi,
faithful servant of Divine Providence and tireless advocate for the poor,
help us to trust in God’s care as you did.
Teach us to love the abandoned, serve with humility,
and persevere in faith amidst difficulties.
Intercede for us before the Lord,
that we may grow in charity and holiness.
Amen.