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CV NEWS FEED // The diocesan inquiry for the beatification and canonization of Antonino “Nino” Baglieri, an Italian quadriplegic lay apostle of the Salesian Family, was officially validated by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Causes of Saints Jan. 21, Agenzia Info Salesiana reported.
This move enables the next beatification phase, during which a formal document on his virtues will be prepared. If approved, he could be declared “Venerable,” advancing him closer to canonization.
Baglieri was born in 1951 in Modica, Italy. His life changed dramatically at the age of 17 when he fell more than 50 feet from a scaffold while working as a bricklayer. The accident left him completely paralyzed, leading to a decade of suffering and despair.
However, on Good Friday in 1978, a prayer experience with members of the Renewal in the Spirit movement brought about a profound spiritual transformation and acceptance of his cross. He immersed himself in the Gospel and the Bible, deepening his faith and finding renewed purpose.
Determined to overcome his physical limitations, Baglieri taught himself to write using his mouth so he could assist local children with their homework. Over time, he penned memoirs, letters to people from all walks of life, and personalized messages for those who visited him.
He frequently saved the phone numbers of those he met who were ill, ensuring he could stay connected and offer them comfort and encouragement.
Over the years, Baglieri became an active evangelist, corresponding with people around the world, providing comfort to the sick, and sharing the Gospel. He joined the Salesian Family as a Salesian cooperator in 1982 and later made his perpetual profession with the Volunteers of Don Bosco in 2004.
He passed away in 2007, buried in a suit and sneakers, so that, as Baglieri had said, “on my last trip to God, I will be able to run towards him.”
The Dicastery’s recent decision, signed by Prefect Cardinal Marcello Semeraro and Secretary Monsignor Fabio Fabene, follows a review of the procedural documents and evidence collected. The inquiry, conducted in the Diocese of Noto, took place between March 2, 2014, and May 5, 2024.
A prayer for the beatification of Baglieri can be found here.
