Saint Vincenzo Romano

Biography

Vincenzo Romano, born Vincenzo Domenico Romano on June 3, 1751, in Torre del Greco, Naples, Italy, was a Roman Catholic priest known for his simplicity and dedication to the poor. As a parish priest of Herculano, he cared deeply for orphans and worked tirelessly to meet the social needs of the Neapolitan region. His efforts extended beyond pastoral duties; during the 1794 eruption of Mount Vesuvius, Romano personally cleared rubble and organized rebuilding efforts in Naples. He was given the nickname 'The Worker Priest' by the people of Torre del Greco for his tireless work with the poor. Despite oppression from French invaders and some Italian political groups, he remained steadfast in his commitment to social justice. His cause for canonization was opened on September 22, 1843, and Pope Leo XIII named him Venerable in 1895. He was beatified by Pope Paul VI in late 1963, and his canonization was celebrated at Saint Peter's Square on October 14, 2018.