Saint Who?
Saints of the Ordinary
Blessed Ippolito Galantini
Founder († 1619)Feast: March 20
Ippolito’s father was a silk weaver in Florence, and Ippolito worked as a weaver to help support his family. But what he loved most was teaching others about God and the Catholic faith. He was only twelve years old when his archbishop (the future Pope Leo XI) recognized Ippolito’s devotion and encouraged him to continue his work as a lay catechist.
For the next four years, Ippolito taught poor children and adults during his spare time. Recognizing the widespread need for religious instruction, he decided to establish his own society, which he called the Congregation of Christian Doctrine. He named Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Lucy of Syracuse as its patrons. Ippolito developed a system of fifteen grades of instruction, based on age and level of knowledge, with each grade helping to teach the grade below. He also encouraged the practice of nocturnal Adoration, which he hoped would divert Catholics from less virtuous evening activities.
Despite the success of his congregation, Ippolito faced serious trials. A disgruntled spiritual son falsely accused him of cruelty, some critics wrongly claimed that he was teaching heresy, and an attempt was made on his life. Yet his congregation grew and spread to other Italian cities, bringing the Good News to children and the poor.
Holy Spirit of Truth, inspire us with a love
of sharing our faith.
