Saturday of the Seventh Week of Easter

Saint Desiderius of Langres, born in Genoa in the year 400, is remembered in the Church as a Catholic bishop and prelate. Though few details of his earthly life have been preserved, his witness endures in the simple fact of his episcopal service: a life given to the care of souls and to the faithful shepherding of the Christian community entrusted to him. His memory is honored on May 23, when the faithful recall the quiet strength of those who lead by devotion and duty. Saint Desiderius is especially venerated as patron of Assago, Castelnuovo Scrivia, Correzzana, and Sali Vercellese, where his intercession is sought for the Church and for local communities. He died in 400.

Saint Giovanni Battista de’ Rossi was born on February 22, 1698, in Voltaggio, Italy, the youngest child of poor but devout parents. Recognized early for his intelligence, he continued his studies in Genoa and then in Rome, where he formed his heart for holiness amid serious suffering: epileptic seizures that would mark his entire life. Though such illness often prevented ordination, he received a special dispensation and became a priest on March 8, dedicating himself with tenderness to those most easily forgotten. In Rome he founded a hospice for homeless women, visited the sick, and served prisoners with patient mercy. As canon of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, he lived simply, selling comforts to provide for the poor. Though he feared having seizures in the confessional, obedience and grace made him a sought-after confessor, earning him a reputation as a “second Philip Neri.” His charity shone especially in forgiving those who misunderstood him. He died in Rome on May 23, 1764. He is venerated as patron of Thiene and Voltaggio. His feast day is May 23.