Aloisius Palazzolo was a 19th-century Italian priest from Bergamo who dedicated his life to serving the marginalized. After his ordination in 1850, he focused his ministry on assisting the impoverished and abandoned, notably founding the Sisters of the Poor, also known as the Palazzolo Institute. His charitable work included establishing an orphanage in Traona and the Little House of Divine Providence. Recognized for his devotion to outcasts, he was beatified in 1963 and later canonized as a saint in 2022.
Life and ministry
Born in 1827, Palazzolo grew up in a family with significant property in Bergamo. Following his ordination, he served as the rector of San Bernardino. His commitment to the needy was sparked by personal encounters with orphans and the disabled, leading him to create various institutions to provide care and shelter. He spent his final years struggling with declining health before passing away in June 1886.
Veneration
The Catholic Church recognized his heroic virtues through several stages of formal recognition. After being named a Servant of God and later Venerable, he was beatified by Pope John XXIII in 1963. Following the approval of a miracle, Pope Francis canonized him in May 2022. He is currently honored as a patron of the Diocese of Bergamo.