Who was Don Luigi Savarè? This unassuming plaque tells a powerful story. Right here in Milan we stand before a tribute to a remarkable man. Don Luigi Savarè was not just a priest. He was a tireless advocate for the poor and a dedicated mentor to young people.
Born in 1878 in Cremona his family later moved to Lodi. Don Luigi’s older brother Bernardo became a Salesian priest under the tutelage of St John Bosco himself. Don Luigi followed a different path yet shared a similar devotion to service. He entered the Lodi seminary excelling in his studies. He even drafted a personal rule of life for priests emphasizing humility and obedience. He dedicated himself to prayer and the study of moral theology.
Ordained in 1903 he began his ministry in Corno Giovine. He quickly saw the immense poverty around him. His response? He built a brick factory a wine cooperative and a farmers’ cooperative. In the rectory he started a youth center. He formed a Catholic congress committee and even a Christian democratic group. He was deeply involved in the community.
Later appointed as Vicar Coadjutor at Lodi Cathedral he became Director of the city’s Oratorio. For fourteen years he launched countless initiatives. He started a magazine and numerous associations. He even established a “Penny Bank” collecting children’s spare change. He added his own money to the interest paying out the accumulated savings to the young people on their 25th birthdays. This would provide them a start in the working world. His love for the young was boundless.
His efforts earned him the nickname “Don Bosco of Lodi”. He was respected by all. Pope Pius XII recognized his three decades of service appointing him as a Supernumerary Secret Chamberlain in 1939. Don Luigi’s legacy lived on. He became Rector of the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians. Sadly he passed away in 1949. This plaque stands as a powerful reminder of his unwavering dedication to faith service and the well being of others. It honors a life well-lived a life dedicated to the people of Lodi and Milan. His story continues to inspire. His life teaches us the importance of service and compassion. Don Luigi Savarè’s impact transcends this plaque it lives on in the hearts of those he touched.