Biography

Vincent Pallotti was born in Rome on April 21st, 1795, the third of ten children, five of whom died in infancy.   He was profoundly influenced by his parent's practical faith, their deep devotion, and generous attentiveness to the poor.

While still young, Vincent became aware of his vocation to the priesthood.   At twelve years of age he selected Fr. Bernardino Fazzini, a diocesan priest, as his spiritual director.   He played a formative role, inculcating in his young charge a profound awareness of God and a readiness for apostolic service.   With clear sightedness and a resolute will, Vincent brought energy to his life project, in spite of frail health and recurrent bouts of illness.

He was a ordained priest at the age of twenty-three, already experienced from years of involvement with catechists, youth associations, and ministry to peasant farmers and the poor.   In 1835 he founded the Union of the Catholic Apostolate, a united front that directed the efforts of lay people, religious and clergy, and brought Christ's message of faith and love to needy people in Rome and elsewhere.

Many considered Vincent's idea of universal apostolate as unorthodox.   It was suspected of renewing the Protestant attack against the ordained priesthood.   For Vincent the call to apostolate had its fundamental basis not in church approval, but in one's creation in the likeness of the God of infinite love.

Vincent remained in Rome during the 1848 Revolution, in spite of attempts on his life.   He died in Rome on January 22nd, 1850.