Saint Antonio Maria Gianelli – Bishop, Educator, Founder

ST. ANTONIO MARIA GIANELLI

St. Antonio Maria Gianelli was an Italian bishop, founder, educator, and social reformer known for his zealous ministry, dedication to the poor, and the founding of the Missionaries of St. Alphonsus and the Sisters of Our Lady of the Garden.

Saint Antonio Maria Gianelli was born on April 12, 1789, in Cerreta, a small village in the Liguria region of Italy. Raised in a devout but humble farming family, Antonio’s early life was marked by deep piety and a love for learning. Despite his family’s financial limitations, he managed to pursue his studies with the support of benefactors who recognized his intellectual promise and spiritual maturity.

He was ordained a priest in 1812 and quickly became known for his tireless dedication to parish work, particularly among the youth and the poor. As a seminary professor and later a pastor, he emphasized religious education, moral formation, and care for the marginalized. In 1827, he founded the Missionaries of St. Alphonsus to evangelize neglected rural areas, and in 1829, he established the Sisters of Our Lady of the Garden to serve the sick, elderly, and children.

Appointed Bishop of Bobbio in 1838, Gianelli implemented sweeping reforms in his diocese, revitalizing both clergy and laity. He worked relentlessly to raise the standards of seminary training, reinvigorate devotion among the faithful, and provide material aid to those in need. He was particularly attuned to the needs of the time—education, health care, and moral renewal.

Despite his accomplishments, Gianelli remained a humble servant of God, living simply and relying on divine providence. Ill health forced him to resign in 1845, and he died the following year on June 7, 1846, at the age of 57.

His holiness, service, and love for others left a deep impact on the Church in Italy. Pope Pius XII canonized him on October 21, 1951, recognizing his spiritual legacy and the vitality of the religious congregations he founded.

Feast Day

7-6-

Birth Date

12-4-1789

Died Date

7-6-1846

Canonised Date

21-10-1951

Diocese of Bobbio, Italy

"St. Antonio Maria Gianelli, pray for us to grow in faith, hope, and love. Help us to serve God and others with humility and dedication. Amen."
ST. ANTONIO MARIA GIANELLI

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ST. ANTONIO MARIA GIANELLI

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