Blessed Teresio Olivelli

Biography

Blessed Teresio Olivelli, also known as Agostino Gracchi during his time in the Italian Resistance, was born on January 7, 1916, in Bellagio, Como, Italy. He was the son of Domenico Olivelli and Clelia Invernizzi, and he grew up in a devoutly religious family. His maternal uncle, Father Rocco Invernizzi, played a significant role in shaping Teresio's spiritual upbringing.

In 1926, the Olivelli family relocated to Pavia, Italy. Teresio studied at Ghislieri College and later pursued a degree in law at the University of Pavia. He graduated with honors in 1938 and displayed a keen interest in social conditions and current events. During his time as a student, he was an active member of Catholic Action and also joined a Fascist student group.

Following his academic pursuits, Teresio became a professor of administrative law at the University of Turin, Italy. Alongside his professional activities, he engaged in a personal ministry centered around caring for the poor and orphaned. This commitment to helping those in need led him to write numerous articles on law, social conditions, and the importance of human dignity for all individuals, regardless of their race.

In 1936, Teresio volunteered to fight in the Spanish Civil War, displaying his courage and dedication to noble causes. Later, he pursued further studies in Berlin, Germany from 1939 to 1941 and became fluent in German. In 1941, he volunteered to fight on the Russian front but unfortunately suffered frostbite-related injuries.

The experiences of war had a profound impact on Teresio, and they turned him against Fascism. When the Italian Social Republic government demanded his allegiance in 1943, he refused and was subsequently deported to Innsbruck, Austria. However, Teresio managed to return to Milan, Italy, where he founded an underground newspaper that promoted Christianity and advocated for Christian alternatives to Fascism.

As Teresio witnessed acts such as the deportation of Jews, he completely abandoned any notions of reconciliation with Fascism. He joined the Italian Resistance, courageously battling against the oppressors. Unfortunately, his heroic efforts led to his arrest on April 27, 1944, in Milan. He was imprisoned and subjected to routine torture by the Nazis. Despite the harsh conditions, Teresio demonstrated selflessness by sharing his meager rations with fellow prisoners and tending to their injuries.

During his imprisonment, he encountered and developed a close friendship with Blessed Odoardo Focherini. Tragically, Teresio was beaten to death by a guard on January 12, 1945, in Hersbruck, Nürnberger Land, Germany. His cremated remains were unceremoniously dumped in a common grave at the Hersbruck camp.

In recognition of his heroic virtues, Pope Francis declared Teresio Olivelli venerable on December 14, 2015. Subsequently, on June 16, 2017, Pope Francis recognized his martyrdom, further enhancing his status as a respected figure within the Catholic faith. Finally, on February 3, 2018, Teresio Olivelli was beatified by Pope Francis in a ceremony held at Palazzetto di Vigevano, Vigevano, Italy, presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato.

The life of Blessed Teresio Olivelli serves as an inspiration to all who strive to defend human dignity, to fight against oppression, and to dedicate themselves to the service of others. His selflessness, courage, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity are qualities that will continue to inspire generations to come.