Stigmatine Life & History

On March 16, 2010, in the Sanctuary of Our Lady of the Exile, in Casa Branca, SP, there was officially open the process that names Bro. Roberto Giovanni a Servant of God.

There attended the Eucharistic Celebration about 800 people, from Casa Branca, Rio Claro and other cities; Most Rev. José Geraldo Oliveira do Valle, Bishop Emeritus of Guaxupé, MG, Monsignor Orlando, General Vicar of the Diocese, in behalf of the Bishop, 18 concelebrants among Stigmatines and Diocesans, and some Deacons. The ceremony took place in the parish hall as the crowd would not fit in the Sanctuary.

After the Mass, about 80 people went to the parish meeting center where there were instituted the Ecclesiastical Tribune and the Historical Commission, composed by members of the Diocesan Clergy of São João da Boa Vista, SP, and some lay people from São João da Boa Vista and Casa Branca.

The Mass was offered in thanksgiving for Bro. Roberto's birthday (he would be turning 107 years old). The opening of the process was one hour long and named the Ecclesiastic Tribune and the Historical Commission, by means of the decree of the Diocesan Bishop and the oath by all its components.

Afterwards a delightful dinner was served.

Fr. Esio F. Juncione, CSS and Fr. Alberto F. Mariani, CSS

Short Biography: Bro. Roberto Giovanni was born in Rio Claro, SP on March 16, 1903. As a coadjutor brother, he spent most of his holy life in the city of Casa Branca. Very strict to himself, full of love towards others, he dedicated to domestic work, the service of the parish and the Shrine of Our Lady of the Exile, and spiritual assistance to the people, especially the poor and sick. His amiability and simplicity attracted everyone, simple or learned. He died in holiness on January 11, 1994, counting 90 years old. The people of Casa Branca wanted his body buried in the same Sanctuary where he dedicated most of his life.

See here the Letter from the Vatican to the Bishop of São João da Boa Vista, Most Rev. David Dias Pimentel, authorizing the opening of this process.

And see here some pictures of this event:

Sanctuary of the Exile and celebration of the Holy Mass