Ever paused to consider the story etched in the face of the Gaetano Thiene Statue? The Gaetano Thiene Statue stands here. It silently embodies a life dedicated to reform and charity. Gaetano Thiene was no ordinary man.
Born in October 1480 in Vicenza Italy Gaetano Thiene defied his noble birth. He chose a path of service. Imagine a young Gaetano Thiene studying law. He earns his doctorate at 24. In 1506 he becomes a diplomat for Pope Julius II.
But the allure of papal courts fades. Gaetano Thiene yearns for something more profound. He is ordained as a priest in 1516. He joins the Oratory of Divine Love in Rome. This group is devoted to piety and charity.
Gaetano Thiene’s spirit extends beyond Rome. He revitalizes oratories. These oratories are in Vicenza and Verona. In Venice in 1522 he founds a hospital. This hospital is for those deemed incurably ill. His actions speak louder than words.
In 1524 Gaetano Thiene’s vision crystallizes. He establishes the Congregation of Clerics Regular. They are also known as the Theatines. He does this with Gian Pietro Carafa who later becomes Pope Paul IV and two other companions. Their goal is clear. They want to promote clerical reform through asceticism and apostolic work. The Theatines are named after Chieti the episcopal see of Caraffa.
The sack of Rome in 1527 tests their resolve. Gaetano Thiene and the Theatines seek refuge in Venice. They continue their work undeterred. In 1533 Gaetano Thiene becomes superior of a new foundation in Naples. He opposes heretics there. He founds a monte di pietà. This becomes the Bank of Naples.
Gaetano Thiene’s impact resonates through time. He was beatified in 1629. He was canonized in 1671. Look at the Gaetano Thiene Statue. Note that in art he is often depicted holding the child Jesus. This represents a vision he had of Mary handing him her child on Christmas Day.
The Gaetano Thiene Statue is a reminder. It reminds us of a life dedicated to faith and service. Consider his legacy as you gaze upon the Gaetano Thiene Statue. He is the patron saint of Argentina and of the unemployed. He is buried in S. Paolo Maggiore. The Gaetano Thiene Statue commemorates the enduring legacy of a true reformer.