Heroic Virtues of Attilio Giordani, Salesian Cooperator

Vatican Recognizes Heroic Virtues
of Salesian Cooperator Attilio Giordani

(ANS - Vatican City) – At a meeting with Cardinal Angelo Amato, SDB, prefect of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes, on October 9, Pope Francis authorized the Congregation to promulgate decrees on the heroic virtues of seven Servants of God, including Attilio Luciano Giordani, a layman, father of a family, and Salesian Cooperator. The Vatican announced the progress of these causes on October 11.

Attilio Giordani was born in Milan on February 3, 1913. Son of a railway worker, he got to know Don Bosco at the Salesian oratory in the city. He was an outstanding animator and catechist, and found the resources for a life of grace in the sacramental life, prayer, and spiritual direction.

In over ten years of military service, including during World War II, he witnessed to the faith among his comrades in arms. After the war, he founded the Crusade of Goodness to restore hope to young people.

He married Naomi Davanzo, and they had three children. When the children grew up, they went as mission volunteers to Brazil. Attilio and his wife followed them, and Attilio continued his commitment as an educator and evangelist in Brazil. He died in Campo Grande on December 18, 1972.