Priests, Religious, and a Family Father on the Path to the Altars with the Approval of a New Decree
Pope Leo XIV has authorized the promulgation of new decrees from the Dicastery for the Causes of the Saints, recognizing the offering of life and the heroic virtues of several Servants of God from various countries, including priests, religious, and a lay family father.
The decision, announced on March 23 following an audience with Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, represents a new advancement in the beatification processes of these figures, who stand out for their lives of faith and dedication in diverse contexts.
Ludovico Altieri, a Cardinal in Service to the Church in Turbulent Times
Among the decrees is the recognition of the offering of life of Cardinal Ludovico Altieri (1805–1867), Bishop of Albano. Born in Rome into a noble family, he held important positions in the Curia and was close to Pope Pius IX.
His ministry took place during a period marked by political and social tensions in the Papal States. He died after providing pastoral care to the sick during an epidemic, which has motivated the recognition of his dedication as an offering of life.
Edward Flanagan, the Priest Who Founded “Boys Town”
The Irish priest Edward Joseph Flanagan (1886–1948) is recognized for his work with abandoned minors. Having emigrated to the United States, he founded the well-known “Boys Town” in Nebraska, an educational community intended to welcome and train homeless youth.
His project, based on the dignity of each child and integral education, became an international model for caring for vulnerable minors.
Henri Caffarel, Promoter of Marital Spirituality
The Frenchman Henri Caffarel (1903–1996) was a diocesan priest known for his work in family pastoral care. He founded the “Équipes Notre-Dame”, an international movement aimed at Christian couples, focused on spiritual life within the family.
His initiative, born in the 20th century, has had widespread diffusion and has contributed to renewing marital spirituality in the contemporary Church.
Stanislava Samulowska, from Poland to Hispanoamerica
Stanislava Samulowska (1865–1950), a religious sister of the Daughters of Charity of Saint Vincent de Paul, developed her life between Europe and Hispanoamerica. Born in present-day Poland, she later emigrated to Guatemala, where she lived much of her religious vocation.
She stood out for her service to the poor, the sick, and the most needy, in a life marked by charity and silent dedication.
Mother Belén, a Witness of Dedication from Spain
Among the new venerables is also the Spanish María de Belén del Corazón de Jesús Romero Algarín (1916–1977), a Sevillian religious sister of the Slaves of the Divine Heart.
Her life was marked by a strong missionary vocation, especially during her time in Brazil, where she worked in poor and isolated areas. Later, she held responsibilities in her congregation and lived her final years in Andalusia, where she died with a reputation for holiness.
Giuseppe Castagnetti, Holiness in Family Life
The recognition also includes Giuseppe Castagnetti (1909–1965), an Italian layman, husband, and father. His life unfolded in the ordinary sphere, where he lived his faith in work, family, and everyday life.
This recognition highlights the universal call to holiness, also in lay and family life.