Blessed Luigi Variara

Blessed Luigi Variara, also known as Aloisius Variara, was born on 15 January 1875 in Viarigi, Italy. He was the son of Peter Variara, whose deep devotion to the Catholic Church was sparked by a mission conducted by Saint John Bosco. Luigi's upbringing in a devout Catholic family laid the foundation for his own strong faith.

As a young man, Luigi attended a Salesian school where he had the opportunity to meet Saint John Bosco. Inspired by Bosco's teachings and his own personal experiences, Luigi made the decision to join the Salesians in August 1891. He took his vows in 1892, dedicating his life to the service of God and others.

In 1894, Luigi embarked on a mission to leper colonies in Colombia as part of the Salesian mission. Ordained in Colombia, he became deeply committed to alleviating the suffering of those affected by leprosy. Witnessing the hardships faced by these outcast individuals, Luigi founded a small town to provide care and education for the children of the lepers. This compassionate initiative was a testament to his unwavering dedication to serving the marginalized and abandoned.

Throughout his life, Luigi played a significant role in fostering spiritual growth among his fellow Catholics. He served as the spiritual director of the Sodality of the Children of Mary and later founded the Daughters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary in Colombia in 1905. This religious congregation catered to the daughters of lepers and young women who desired a religious life but faced obstacles in being accepted by other orders. The Daughters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary received official recognition on 24 December 1983, a testament to the importance and impact of Luigi's work.

Despite his tireless efforts, Luigi's health began to decline in his later years. Despite his physical frailty, he found solace and strength in his deep devotion to the Eucharist and his commitment to prayer. These practices sustained him and allowed him to continue his work in Bogota, Agua de Dios, and Caribbean Barranquilla.

Blessed Luigi Variara passed away on 1 February 1923 in Colombia due to natural causes. His extraordinary virtues and dedicated service to God and humanity were officially recognized on 2 April 1993 when Pope John Paul II declared him venerable. Further honoring his legacy, Pope John Paul II beatified Luigi Variara on 14 April 2002, acknowledging his exemplary life and the impact of his charitable work.

Blessed Luigi Variara serves as a profound example of selflessness and compassion, epitomizing the teachings of Christ. His life's work continues to inspire and remind us of the transformative power of love and service to the marginalized in society.