Santiago Abbondo (1720–1788)

Biography

Italian priest, Santiago Abbondo was a teacher before taking over the rural parish of Tronzano Vercellese for thirty years. He reorganized catechesis, systematically preached Christian doctrine, promoted spiritual exercises and carefully accompanied the sick, prisoners and dying. He visited scattered hamlets and understood parish benefits as a responsibility before God, not as a privilege. His ministry produced vocations and lasting religious renewal. He was a trained pastor who put his culture at the service of simple people.