Also known as Paolo Francesco Danei, Paul Daneo, God's Hunter of Souls

Memorial 19 October formerly 28 April

Profile Son of a merchant. Pius youth. After receiving a vision, and while still a layman, he founded the Congregation of Discalced Clerks of the Most Holy Cross and Passion (Passionists) in 1721 to preach about Jesus Crucified. Preacher of such power that hardened soldiers and bandits were seen to weep. At one point all the brothers in the order deserted him, but in 1741 his rule was approved by Pope Benedict XIV, and the community began to grow again. Priest. Missionary.

Born 3 January 1694 at Ovada, Piedmont (northern Italy) as Paolo Francesco Danei

Died 18 October 1775 at Rome, Italy

Beatified 1 October 1852

Canonized 29 June 1867 by Pope Pius IX

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