Giuseppe Lazzati was an Italian politician, writer, and academic who lived in Milan from 1909 to 1986. A dedicated scholar of ancient Christian literature, he served as a rector at the Sacred Heart college and held positions in the Italian Constituent Assembly and the Chamber of Deputies. He is notably recognized for founding the Secular Institute of Christ the King, an organization designed for individuals seeking consecrated life within the secular world. Throughout his life, he maintained significant connections with prominent political figures and popes, including Paul VI and John Paul II.
Life and work
After studying classical literature, Lazzati became a lecturer and a leader in Catholic youth movements. During the Second World War, he was interned in Nazi concentration camps following his refusal to swear allegiance to the Italian Social Republic. Following the war, he transitioned into politics, serving in the national administration and the Italian parliament. He later returned to academia, serving multiple terms as rector of the Sacred Heart college while continuing his work in religious studies and political thought.
Veneration
The Catholic Church has recognized Lazzati for his heroic virtue. Following the opening of his cause for beatification in 1994, Pope Francis declared him venerable in 2013. He is remembered for his efforts to bridge the gap between religious consecration and secular life through his institute, which continues to operate globally. His remains are currently kept at the San Salvatore Hermitage.