Giuseppe Pesci

Ordained a priest on December 23, 1883, in Veroli, Father Giuseppe taught and trained young Passionists in Falvaterra, Mandria, and Airola. He became superior in Airola in 1895, master of novices in 1902, and then provincial councilor in 1905. In 1908, he was elected Provincial Superior of the Province of the Addolorata, a position he held again from 1914 to 1919. During the First World War, he supported the young religious who were mobilized and managed the damage from the Marsica earthquake in 1915. After other roles as master of novices and superior in Ceglie Messapico, Pontecorvo, and Novoli, he passed away on January 12, 1929, in Pontecorvo.

Father Giuseppe Pesci distinguished himself by his profound humility, patience, and charity, which earned him the affectionate nickname of 'padre Giuseppe, the holy one' (quello santo). He conceived of authority as a service of love. His life of prayer was particularly intense, with his confreres saying of him: 'If you do not find Father Giuseppe in his room, go look for him near the tabernacle'. He also left behind numerous preaching writings imbued with spiritual fervor.

After his death, his reputation for holiness grew. In 1959, his remains were transferred to the Passionist church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Pontecorvo. The diocesan process for beatification opened in 1955, and the cause was introduced in Rome on September 11, 1980. On July 6, 1993, Pope John Paul II signed the decree recognizing the heroic nature of his virtues, conferring upon him the title of Venerable.

Rooted in the Passionist charism, the spirituality of Giuseppe Pesci is centered on the contemplation and preaching of the Passion of Jesus Christ. As a spiritual director, confessor, and retreat preacher, he guided many souls toward Christian perfection. His legacy lies primarily in his model of pastoral governance, characterized by gentleness, unalterable inner peace in the face of trials, and a sense of selfless service.