Luigi Di Liegro canonization inquiry announced by Pope

Pope Leo XIV has announced the opening of a diocesan inquiry into the life, virtues, and reputation for holiness of Luigi Di Liegro, the founder of Caritas Rome. The announcement was made during the Assembly of the Diocese of Rome at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran.

Di Liegro, who passed away on October 12, 1997, was highlighted by the Pope as a model of authentic pastoral action. The Pope noted that before establishing various services, Di Liegro focused on ‘seeing’ and listening to reality, evidenced by his 1969 investigation into the religiosity of Roman citizens.

In addition to the canonization announcement, the Pope introduced a new pastoral dimension focused on ‘pastoral verification.’ This approach encourages communities to reflect on their actions, recognize what has been fruitful, and understand what has not worked to better serve the city and its people.