Biserica Sfantului Alois Orione

Have you ever heard of a saint whose body defied decay? Here at Biserica Sfantului Alois Orione in Voluntari, the spirit of such a man lives on. Don Orione, as he was affectionately known, founded the “Little Work of Divine Providence,” a congregation dedicated to helping those in need. Biserica Sfantului Alois Orione, a beautiful testament to his work, stands as a beacon of hope and a reminder of his unwavering faith. Don Orione’s life was a whirlwind of compassionate action. Born in Italy in 1872, he dedicated his life to serving the poor and marginalized. He established colleges for children, provided aid during earthquakes, and even created communities for the blind to live a hermit-like existence. His work extended beyond Italy’s borders, reaching Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Palestine, and beyond. Here in Voluntari, Biserica Sfantului Alois Orione serves as a vital center for the community. The Orionine Fathers continue Don Orione’s legacy by caring for the elderly, children and young people with disabilities, and children with autism. They also minister to the Catholic Italian community in Bucharest. The church itself is a place of vibrant celebration. In May 2018, Biserica Sfantului Alois Orione hosted a special celebration to honor their patron saint. The Superior General of the Orionine Congregation, Father Tarcisio Vieira, visited Romania for the first time, a testament to the global reach of Don Orione’s work. The Archbishop of Bucharest, Ioan Robu, expressed his deep appreciation for the work of the “Orionines” at the Voluntari center. But perhaps the most remarkable aspect of Don Orione’s story is the miraculous preservation of his body. Discovered intact 25 years after his death, and again after a flood threatened his tomb, his incorruptible body now rests in a glass shrine in Tortona, Italy. It serves as a tangible symbol of his enduring spirit. As you stand before Biserica Sfantului Alois Orione, remember Don Orione’s incredible life and the legacy of compassion that continues within these walls. His unwavering devotion to helping others serves as an inspiration to us all.