Saint Alberic Crescitelli

Biography

Saint Alberic Crescitelli, also known as Alberico, was born on 30 June 1863 in Altavilla, Benevento, Italy. From a young age, he had a strong calling to the priesthood and entered the seminary at the tender age of twelve. He studied at the prestigious Pontifical Seminary for Foreign Missions in Rome, where he received a solid formation in theology and prepared himself to dedicate his life to the spreading of the Catholic faith. Alberic Crescitelli's unwavering commitment to his vocation led him to be ordained as a priest in 1887. Shortly after, he joined the Milan Foreign Missionary Society, which later became the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (PIME). The organization had a strong focus on missionary work and sent priests to various corners of the globe, particularly in Asia. In 1888, Father Alberic was assigned to the Shensi Province in China, specifically near the Han River. This region presented numerous challenges for Catholic missionaries due to the prevailing anti-Christian sentiment and the danger posed by the Boxer Rebellion, a violent movement that sought to expel foreigners and eradicate Christianity from China. Despite these risks, Father Alberic fearlessly carried out his missionary duties, spreading the Gospel and ministering to the local population. In 1900, Father Alberic was transferred to Ningkiang, another region within the Shensi Province. Sadly, this change of location coincided with the height of the Boxer Rebellion. On 20 July 1900, Father Alberic was arrested by the anti-Western Boxer rebels, who were fiercely opposed to the presence of Western missionaries. He endured torture and cruel treatment at their hands, displaying immense courage and steadfastness in his faith. Tragically, Father Alberic Crescitelli was martyred on 21 July 1900. He was beheaded in Ningkiang, and his body was hacked into pieces. His martyrdom serves as a powerful testament to his unwavering dedication to Christ and his mission of spreading God's love and truth, even in the face of extreme adversity. The heroic sacrifice of Saint Alberic Crescitelli did not go unnoticed by the Catholic Church. He was venerated on 5 March 1950 by Pope Pius XII, who recognized his martyrdom. On 18 February 1951, Pope Pius XII declared him blessed, acknowledging the sanctity of his life and his ultimate sacrifice. Finally, on 1 October 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized him as a saint, honoring his profound faith and his status as one of the Martyrs of China. Though not specifically associated with any patronage, Saint Alberic Crescitelli's life and martyrdom serve as an inspiration for all faithful, especially those engaged in missionary work and those facing persecution for their religious beliefs. His feast days are celebrated on 21 July and 28 September, alongside other Martyrs of China, who also sacrificed their lives for their faith. Saint Alberic Crescitelli's legacy continues to endure, reminding Catholics and all believers of the profound love and dedication required to bear witness to Christ in a world where faith can be met with hostility.