Pope Francis authorizes decrees of martyrdom and miracles for new Blesseds and Venerables

Pope Francis has authorized the promulgation of decrees of martyrdom for several priests of various nationalities who were killed “in hatred of the faith” during the 20th century. The audience granted to the prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints saw the approval of eight new Blesseds, including six martyrs who were victims of fascism and communism.

The stories of these martyrs are both tragic and inspiring. One such martyr, Don Giuseppe Rossi, a diocesan priest in the Ossola Valley, was kidnapped, forced to dig his own grave, and shot dead by fascist militiamen in 1945. Another group of martyrs, including Luigi Carrara, Giovanni Didonè, and Vittorio Faccin, were killed in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1964 during a period of unrest and persecution against the Church.

The Decrees also recognize three new Venerables, including a Capuchin Franciscan and two lay people. Father Alberto Beretta, the brother of Saint Gianna Beretta Molla, lived a life of missionary work in Brazil before returning to Italy due to health issues. Francesca Lancellotti, a humble woman from Basilicata, dedicated her life to prayer and helping the needy. Ernesto Guglielmo Cofiño Ubico, a doctor from Guatemala, was a defender of the right to life and a devoted member of Opus Dei.

The stories of these new Blesseds and Venerables serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the faith and the inspiring lives led by those who dedicated themselves to serving others. The recognition of their martyrdom and heroic virtues is a testament to their unwavering faith and commitment to their beliefs.