Louis Versiglia was an Italian Salesian missionary and Catholic bishop who dedicated his life to service in China. Born in Oliva Gessi in 1873, he earned a doctorate from the Gregorian University before being ordained a priest in 1895. After serving as a novice master, he joined a Salesian mission to China in 1906. He eventually became the first apostolic vicar of Shaoguan, where he worked to support vulnerable populations through various charitable institutions.
Life and ministry
Following his ordination, Versiglia spent several years as a novice master in Genzano. In 1906, he traveled to China to support the Salesian mission. As the vicar apostolic of Shaoguan, he focused his efforts on social welfare, establishing orphanages and colonies for those suffering from leprosy. His service ended abruptly in 1930 when he was killed by pirates while attempting to protect three young girls.
Veneration
The Catholic Church recognizes Versiglia as a saint. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1983 and later canonized in Rome on October 1, 2000. He is commemorated in the church calendar on July 9 and November 13.