Januarius Maria Sarnelli

After his ordination, he dedicated himself to the catechesis of street children and the rehabilitation of prostitutes in Naples. In 1733, he joined Alphonsus Liguori in Scala to support the nascent Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer. Despite fragile health that forced him to return to Naples in 1736, he continued his missions there among the sick, prisoners, and the marginalized, organizing a major mission in 1741 before passing away in 1744.

The reputation for holiness of Januarius Maria Sarnelli spread upon his death, supported by the testimony of Saint Alphonsus Liguori regarding his heroic virtues. His cause for beatification opened in Naples in 1861, and was subsequently introduced in Rome in 1874 under the pontificate of Pius IX. Pope Saint Pius X declared him Venerable on December 2, 1906, recognizing the heroic nature of his virtues.

Following the recognition of a miraculous healing by decree of Pope John Paul II on January 12, 1996, Januarius Maria Sarnelli was solemnly beatified on May 12, 1996, in Saint Peter's Square. His remains, initially deposited in Naples, were transferred in 1994 to the Church of the Most Holy Trinity in Ciorani, which was erected as a diocesan shrine in 2022.

Considered a pioneer of social action for his defense of exploited women and children, he left behind more than 30 works of theology, morality, and pastoral care. His major work, 'Il mondo santificato', promotes prayer for all the faithful, anticipating the universal call to holiness. His spirituality is centered on Christ the Redeemer and divine mercy.