Leo XIV wants to beatify controversial Aids-Priest Don Luigi.
Leo XIV has opened the way towards the beatification of Luigi Di Liegro (1928–1997), a Roman priest who wanted to be close to people dying of AIDS. The pope made the announcement on Friday during the diocesan assembly in the Basilica of St John Lateran.
He said he had “gladly approved” the steps necessary to begin the diocesan investigation into Di Liegro’s life, virtues and reputation for holiness.
The most controversial episode of Di Liegro’s ministry came in 1988. As head of Caritas Rome, he insisted on opening a home for people with AIDS at Villa Glori in Parioli — an affluent Roman neighbourhood.
It was the height of the AIDS panic.
HIV was associated particularly with drug users and homosexuals.
Residents protested. More than a thousand signatures were reportedly collected against the home.
Rome temporarily delayed the opening; demonstrators marched against the project, while scouts, environmentalists and others organised …More