Blessed Nazju Falzon (July 1, 1813 - July 1, 1865) |
He learned how
to speak English and taught catechism to young children as well as sailors and
soldiers, since Malta was still a British colony and many of them were present
in Malta. They trusted him with leaving personal belongings with him, as they
feared not surviving during their travels and war-time confrontations. This way
he would pass on these belongings to their respective families. Nazju Falzon
was also available to give advice about legal matters without any payment,
although he never actually practiced as a lawyer. He also helped many sailors
and soldiers who were Anglican and used to gather them in a Jesuit church,
close to the University of Malta. Some of them converted and even became
priests. He published a magazine entitled “The Comfort of the Christian Soul.”
He was well loved and many people found comfort and protection with him.
He died on his
birthday, July 1, 1865, when he turned 52. His process of beatification started in 1882 and was declared Servant
of God in 1889. But 100 more years had to pass for him to be proclaimed
Venerable. Then he was beatified by Pope John Paul II in May 2001, after
another miracle through his intercession was approved by the Vatican.
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