Saint Annibale Maria di Francia: Founder of the Rogationists and Daughters of Divine Zeal

ST. ANNIBALE MARIA DI FRANCIA

St. Annibale Maria di Francia was an Italian priest who dedicated his life to prayer for vocations and to charitable works for the poor and orphaned. He founded the Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus and the Daughters of Divine Zeal, communities focused on fostering vocations and serving those in need. Canonized a saint in 2004, his legacy continues through his spiritual and social missions.

Annibale Maria di Francia was born on July 5, 1851, in Messina, Italy. From an early age, he exhibited deep devotion to the Catholic faith, which would later shape his spiritual journey. His most profound contribution to the Church was his focus on praying for vocations, based on Jesus’ words from the Gospel of Matthew: “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Pray, therefore, to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest” (Matthew 9:37–38).

Annibale’s love for vocations led him to found two religious congregations: the Rogationists of the Heart of Jesus and the Daughters of Divine Zeal. These communities were established with the primary mission of fostering and nurturing vocations to the priesthood and religious life. His vision was to build a network of prayer and service dedicated to this purpose, which also involved caring for the poor and orphans.

In addition to his religious endeavors, St. Annibale was known for his compassion towards the underprivileged. He worked tirelessly to support orphanages, schools, and charitable institutions. Through these efforts, he sought to combine spiritual formation with practical assistance for those in need, giving them not only material sustenance but also hope through the gospel message.

His work in promoting vocations and his dedication to charitable works earned him the admiration of many. Annibale was not only a founder but also an influential spiritual figure in Italy and beyond. He was devoted to the Eucharist and the Sacred Heart of Jesus, drawing strength from these sources to fuel his pastoral and charitable work.

St. Annibale’s life was one of simplicity, humility, and intense prayer. He often spent hours in prayer, particularly for vocations, which he considered the highest calling. His religious communities continued his mission long after his death on June 1, 1927. His work remains alive today in the many Rogationist and Daughters of Divine Zeal missions throughout the world.

In recognition of his sanctity and service to the Church, St. Annibale Maria di Francia was beatified by Pope John Paul II on November 3, 1990. He was canonized a saint on May 16, 2004. His feast day is celebrated on June 1, the day of his death.

Feast Day

1-6-1927

Birth Date

5-7-1851

Died Date

1-6-1927

Canonised Date

16-5-2004

Rome, Italy

St. Annibale Maria di Francia, A servant of God’s love and mercy, Pray for us to live with deep faith and compassion. Help us to serve others with humility And follow Christ’s example of kindness and charity. Amen.
ST. ANNIBALE MARIA DI FRANCIA

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ST. ANNIBALE MARIA DI FRANCIA

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