St. Gaetano Errico (1791–1860) was an Italian priest and founder of the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Though not as widely known as some saints, his life offers a compelling testimony to humility, perseverance in trials, and zealous missionary spirit deeply rooted in the Sacred Heart devotion—a cornerstone of traditional Catholic spirituality in the 19th century.
✤ Hagiography of Saint Gaetano Errico
Early Life and Formation
Gaetano Errico was born on October 19, 1791, in Secondigliano, a poor suburb of Naples, into a devout working-class family. From a young age, he displayed a deep piety and devotion to the Eucharist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. His spiritual life was marked by simplicity and a profound desire to do the will of God.
Drawn to the priesthood early in life, he entered the seminary and was ordained a priest in 1815, at age 24. His initial years of ministry were spent as a schoolteacher and parish priest in his hometown, where he earned a reputation for charity, tireless confessions, and compassion toward the poor and sick.
Founding of the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts
The defining moment of his life came during a retreat in 1818 at the Redemptorist house of Pagani, founded by St. Alphonsus Liguori. There, Gaetano had a mystical experience in which St. Alfonso appeared to him, urging him to found a new religious congregation dedicated to the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, with the mission of preaching parish missions and offering confessions.
Though beset by opposition and trials—including skepticism from clergy and difficulties in acquiring land and papal approval—he remained firm in obedience and trust in Divine Providence. In 1836, after almost two decades of effort, Pope Gregory XVI gave papal approval to the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts. Gaetano built their first church in Secondigliano, which became a center of parish missions, retreats, and works of mercy.
Apostolic Zeal and Final Years
As superior of the new congregation, Gaetano personally led missions across southern Italy, emphasizing conversion of heart, confession, and devotion to the Sacred Heart. His preaching was not marked by eloquence but by fervor, penitential example, and evident sanctity. He lived austerely, fasted frequently, and spent long hours in the confessional.
Throughout his life, he was known for:
- Prophetic insight
- Miracles of healing
- Deep interior life, often absorbed in prayer
- Unwavering commitment to the poor and forgotten
He died on October 29, 1860, at age 69, after a long illness, and was buried in the church he founded. Pilgrims immediately began visiting his tomb, and his reputation for holiness grew steadily.
✤ Canonization and Legacy
- Beatified: April 14, 2002, by Pope John Paul II
- Canonized: October 12, 2008, by Pope Benedict XVI
In his canonization homily, Pope Benedict XVI emphasized Gaetano’s “deep spirituality rooted in the Eucharist and the Heart of Jesus” and his tireless missionary efforts.
Today, the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary continue his work in several countries, carrying out parish missions, education, and service to the poor.
✤ Spiritual Themes in His Life
- Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary
- Sanctification through suffering and perseverance
- Zeal for souls through the ministry of confession and preaching
- Mystical piety influenced by St. Alphonsus Liguori and the Neapolitan school of spirituality
✤ For Reflection and Prayer
A suitable prayer inspired by his spirituality:
“O Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, enflame within me the missionary fire that burned in the heart of St. Gaetano Errico. Teach me to love souls, to embrace suffering in union with You, and to never falter in proclaiming the merciful love of God. Amen.”