Luigi Scrosoppi

Luigi Scrosoppi (1804–1884) was an Italian priest of the Catholic Church who is recognized for his charitable works and spiritual leadership. He is best known for founding the Sisters of Providence of Saint Cajetan of Thiene and for his later designation as the patron saint of footballers.

Life and Ministry

Born in Udine, Italy, Luigi Scrosoppi was the last of three brothers, with two of his brothers also entering the priesthood. He felt a call to the priesthood from a young age and was ordained in 1827. Scrosoppi dedicated himself to assisting his brother Carlo, who managed a children's center. He later joined the Third Order of Franciscans and then the Oratory of Saint Philip Neri in 1846, where he served as provost. His vocational path was marked by a deep commitment to the poor and vulnerable.

Charitable Works and Foundations

Scrosoppi tirelessly engaged in fundraising to support the destitute. He was instrumental in managing and expanding an organization that provided for a significant number of boarders and day pupils, which became known as the House of the Destitute. A pivotal moment in his life was the establishment of the Sisters of Providence of Saint Cajetan of Thiene, an order that received official papal approval in 1871. In 1857, he also opened a home and school specifically for deaf-mute girls.

Sainthood and Patronage

The process for Luigi Scrosoppi's canonization began with the approval of his writings for beatification in 1952. He was declared Servant of God in 1964 and Venerable in 1978. Pope John Paul II beatified him in 1981 and canonized him as a saint on June 10, 2001. His feast day is observed on April 3. In a modern development, on August 22, 2010, Scrosoppi was appointed the patron saint of footballers by Bishop Alois Schwarz, recognizing his embodiment of values important in sports, such as fairness and perseverance. A Canadian soccer club, Scrosoppi FC, is named in his honor.