October 21
José “Pino” Puglisi, priest and martyr (1937–1993)
martyr priest
Sicilian priest and martyr of the mafia, José Puglisi fought criminal rule by educating consciences and offering young people paths other than violence.
Biography
As parish priest of Brancaccio, one of the most difficult neighborhoods in Palermo, he organized catechism, literacy, volunteering and the Our Father Center. He visited families, demanded public services and taught that no one was condemned to obey the mafia. He did not respond to the threats with fear or aggression. He was murdered in front of his house on September 15, 1993, his birthday, receiving his executioners with a smile that morally disarmed one of them.
Practical advice
Spend time today with a young person exposed to bad influences and help them discover a good alternative.
Example of
FortitudeSpirit of serviceSacrifice