Here stands Mater Orphanorum. It is a testament to faith and charity. This religious institution has a rich history rooted in helping those in need.
Mater Orphanorum began with Father Giovanni Antonio Rocco. He was born in Italy in 1913. He felt a calling to serve. After the Second World War, he saw many orphaned and abandoned youths. This inspired him to found a charitable institution. He named it Mater Orphanorum. This translates to “Mother of the Orphans”.
The work began on September 8, 1945. It started in Castelletto di Cuggiono near Milan. Father Rocco opened the first rented house there. This house welcomed many abandoned girls. They had been left with nothing because of the war. Father Rocco started with very few resources. He only had the blessing of his superiors and the approval of the Archbishop of Milan.
In 1954, the foundation stone was laid for the Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Orphans. It was built in Legnano. The headquarters of the congregation moved there. Father Rocco also lived there.
In 1955, Pope Paul VI blessed the temple. At that time, he was the Bishop of Milan. The temple became the largest dedicated to the Mother of God. It carries the name Mother of the Orphans.
Over time, Mater Orphanorum grew. It established mission centers in Latin America and Africa. These centers provided homes and smiles to needy girls. The organization expanded its reach to Guatemala, El Salvador, Colombia, Cameroon, and Angola.
The religious institute is called “Religious Institution, Oblates of Mother Orphanorum”. Father Giovanni Antonio Rocco founded it. The foundation date was September 8, 1945. It started in Castelletto di Cuggiono in Milan.
The fields of activity include children’s homes and family homes. There are also kindergartens and nursing homes. They collaborate with parishes and offer spiritual retreats. A soup kitchen serves the poor. The institute is dedicated to serving the Church. They focus on evangelization, education, and assistance in all forms.
The Oblates of Mater Orphanorum live like real mothers. They embody the charity of St. Jerome Emiliani. They help children learn useful tasks. These tasks include local, family, professional, and Christian skills. Faith and trust in Divine Providence guide them. Filial devotion to Our Lady of the Orphans inspires them.
Father Giovanni Antonio Rocco died on July 16, 2003. He is buried in the Orphanis Matri Temple in Legnano. His legacy lives on through the Mater Orphanorum. It continues to provide care and support to those in need. The Oblates of Mater Orphanorum carry on his mission. They testify to God’s infinite love.