Jun 9, 2005 / 22:00 pm
A Russian prince who left his wealth behind to come to America and be one of the first priests ordained in the United States has received his first nod from the Vatican on his road to sainthood.
The Congregation for the Causes of the Saints has named Fr. Demetrius Gallitzin a Servant of God, announced Bishop Joseph Adamec of Altoona-Johnstown on Monday.
Fr. Gallitzin left Europe at age 29 and entered a Baltimore monastery in 1795. After his ordination, he used his inherited wealth to buy part of what is current-day Loretto, and to build sawmills, gristmills, tanneries, a church and a farm.
Fr. Gallitzin is also known as the "Apostle of the Alleghenies" for bringing Catholicism to south-central Pennsylvania, reported the Associated Press. He died in 1840 of a strangulated hernia related to a fall from a horse years earlier.
Bishop Adamec has asked Catholics to submit any information about Fr. Gallitzin to the diocese and to report any favors received as a result of Fr. Gallitzin’s intercession. A miracle is necessary for his beatification.
Subscribe to our daily newsletter
At Catholic News Agency, our team is committed to reporting the truth with courage, integrity, and fidelity to our faith. We provide news about the Church and the world, as seen through the teachings of the Catholic Church. When you subscribe to the CNA UPDATE, we'll send you a daily email with links to the news you need and, occasionally, breaking news.
As part of this free service you may receive occasional offers from us at EWTN News and EWTN. We won't rent or sell your information, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Click hereOur mission is the truth. Join us!
Your monthly donation will help our team continue reporting the truth, with fairness, integrity, and fidelity to Jesus Christ and his Church.
Donate to CNA