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October 24

Luis Guanella (1842–1915)

Founding priest

Priest, founder of the Servants of Charity and the Daughters of Mary of Providence in 1886, in Pianello Lario, Italy.

Biography

One thousand nuns and four hundred and fifty religious men strive today, as a precious inheritance, to live the evangelical charism of this family: to give “Bread and Lord” to the poor. Present on four continents and in 20 nations, they work together against poverty and religious ignorance, driven by the teachings of the founder: "We must give the poorest and most abandoned not only the affection of charity, but also esteem and veneration, because they represent Jesus Christ better than anyone else. We cannot sit back while there are poor people to lend a hand to."

Practical advice

With the desire to sanctify everyday life, exercise authority as a service and not as a privilege and also take care of the small details.

Example of

Self-givingPerseveranceFounding spirit

Sources and related links

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