Leopoldo da Gaiche was an Italian Capuchin priest born Giovanni Croci who lived from 1732 to 1815. A dedicated member of the Order of Friars Minor, he became a prominent preacher traveling across various dioceses. He is widely recognized for his strict adherence to the Franciscan Rule and for wearing a crown of thorns. Known as the "Apostle of Umbria," he served as a provincial minister and established a monastery in Monteluco, where he eventually spent his final years.
Life and ministry
Born to farmers in Piegaro, Croci entered the Capuchin order in 1752. After his ordination in 1757, he spent decades as a missionary, conducting hundreds of missions and numerous Lenten retreats. He was a strong advocate for the Way of the Cross, reviving the devotion in several areas. In 1781, he led the Franciscan friars in the Umbrian region, emphasizing a rigorous commitment to the original Rule of Saint Francis.
Later years
In 1788, he founded a monastery at Monteluco. During the Napoleonic era, he protested the invasion of Italy and faced brief imprisonment for refusing to join the Napoleonic Republic. Following the restoration, he successfully petitioned Pope Pius VII to reopen his monastery. He fell ill after a Christmas sermon in 1814 and died in April 1815, leaving his remains in Spoleto.
Veneration
Reports of miracles occurring at his tomb led to an early beatification process. After being declared Venerable in 1855, he was beatified by Pope Leo XIII in 1893 following the verification of two miracles. He is commemorated in the Catholic Church on April 2.