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January 16

Teresio Olivelli (1916–1945)

Martyr

Italian layman and martyr of charity, Teresio Olivelli was a jurist, educator and Christian resister against Nazi-fascism.

Biography

After an initial stage of participation in fascist institutions, he recognized his incompatibility with the Gospel and became a "rebel for love." He founded a clandestine newspaper inspired by human dignity. Arrested and deported to several concentration camps, he shared food, protected prisoners and sustained the hope of the weakest. He died in Hersbruck after being beaten for defending another prisoner.

Practical advice

Rectify a wrong position today without fear of what people will say and protect those who are being treated unfairly.

Example of

FortitudeFaithfulnessSacrifice

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