Olinto Marella was an Italian Catholic priest who served the Archdiocese of Bologna during the 20th century. Born in Pellestrina in 1882, he was a former classmate of Angelo Roncalli, who later became Pope John XXIII. Marella was recognized for his dedicated pastoral work, particularly his efforts to support the impoverished and homeless. After being declared Venerable in 2013, he was beatified in 2020 following the recognition of a miracle attributed to his intercession.
Life and ministry
Educated by his uncle, Marella was ordained in 1904 and initially taught humanities and theology in Chioggia. His ministry faced a temporary suspension in 1909 after he hosted an excommunicated individual, a decision he accepted with humility. Later, he focused his service in Bologna, where he preached to people on the streets and raised funds for chapels and shelters. He was known for applying the social principles of Rerum Novarum to his work with the poor.
Veneration
The process for his beatification began in 1995. Following the recognition of his heroic virtue by Pope Francis in 2013, a miracle was investigated and confirmed by medical and theological boards. This led to his beatification in Bologna on 4 October 2020. He is commemorated as a saint in the Catholic tradition, with his feast day observed on 6 September.