Blessed Lorenzo is unique among the Passionist Saints because of his strong devotion, not just to the Passion of Christ, but also to the Infant Jesus. In this he resembles our Holy Founder, St. Paul of the Cross, whose intense love for the “Bambino Gesu” shines out in his numerous Christmas letters.

LIFE

(taken from the Passionist Sacramentary)

Blessed Lorenzo Maria Salvi (of Saint Francis Xavier) was born in Rome on 30 October 1782. He died in Capranica (Viterbo) 12 June 1856. Bl. Lorenzo was professed as a Passionist on 20 November 1802 and was ordained to the priesthood 29 December 1805. As superior he was most prudent in leading the community. Following in the footsteps of Our Founder, Saint Paul of the Cross, his principal apostolate was that of itinerant missionary. Blessed Lorenzo was also untiring in promoting devotion to the Holy Childhood of Jesus on every occasion by work, example and through his many writings. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II on 1 October 1989. He is buried in the Passionist church of Sant’Angelo, Vetralla (Viterbo, Italy).

Lord, you granted Blessed Lorenzo Maria
an intense and penetrating knowledge
of the mystery of your Word made flesh
through his devout contemplation of the Child Jesus;
through his intercession grant that we, too,
walking in the ways of spiritual childhood,
may come to eternal life in your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit
God, forever and ever.