(1791-1860) Born near Naples, Italy, Gaetano helped his father manage a pasta factory in his youth and tried to join the Capuchins and the Redemptorists at 14, being rejected by both because of his age. At 16, he entered the diocesan seminary, became a priest, pastor, and teacher, and around 27, during his annual retreat, had a vision of Saint Alphonsus Liguori informing him that he was to found a new religious organization. 28 years later, the Missionaries of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary received full papal approval. Gaetano was a priest of prayer and penance and offered his suffering as reparation for the sins that wounded the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Saint Gaetano “devoted himself to [the ministry of Reconciliation] with diligence, perseverance and patience, never refusing or sparing himself. He…tirelessly made the confessional the place for dispensing God’s mercy, helping people to find themselves, fight against sin and progress on the path of the spiritual life” (Pope Benedict XVI, canonization homily, October 12, 2008). How is the Sacrament of Reconciliation a part of your recovery?
“God loves you; when will we see each other?” (Saint Gaetano Errico’s invitation to the Sacrament of Reconciliation).
Reflection by Brad Farmer