March 23, 2026

The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints has approved the opening of the cause of beatification of Fr. Roberto Malgesini, an Italian priest known for his work with the poor in the city of Como, until his murder in 2020.

The Bishop of Como, Cardinal Oscar Cantoni, announced the news on March 21 during the diocesan Lenten retreat for young people, which was attended by Fr. Malgesini’s sister, Caterina.

Malgesini was stabbed to death by a homeless man with mental health issues as he loaded his car with breakfast items to distribute to the poor near the Church of Saint Rocco, where he served.

 

The Dicastery for the Causes of Saints has approved the cause of beatification for Fr. Roberto Malgesini, an Italian priest revered for his dedication to the poor in Como until his 2020 murder by a homeless man with mental illness; praised by Pope Francis as a martyr for charity, Malgesini is remembered by Cardinal Oscar Cantoni as a devout, hopeful priest who truly saw the face of God in everyone he encountered, embodying faith and compassion beyond mere philanthropy.

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