The story of Blessed Odoardo Focherini is retraced through the main stages and the multiple dimensions that characterized his life. From training in the oratory to commitment to Catholic Action. From his marriage to Maria Marchesi to the birth of their seven children. From his experience as a journeyman to journalism for "L'Avvenire d'Italia" and "L'Osservatore Romano", passing through the profession of insurance. From the rescue of over one hundred Jews, up to the deportation and death (at just 37 years old) in the Hersbruck concentration camp. To get to the medal of "righteous among the nations", awarded to him by the State of Israel, and to beatification with the recognition of martyrdom "in hatred of the faith".
The figure of Focherini is told by Ilaria Vellani together with two of the blessed's grandchildren, Maria Peri and Francesco Manicardi, who today deal with the diffusion of the figure of their grandfather. The book is enriched with period images and documents, in-depth information sheets, texts from Focherini's writings.
The history of your Association
it is made up of many “saints next door” – many! –,
and it is a story that must continue:
holiness is a heritage to be guarded and a vocation to be welcomed.