An Italian missionary, priest, and martyr who spread Christianity in 19th-century Korea, ultimately giving his life for his faith. He's remembered for his bravery and devotion to his mission.
Ezechiele Ramin, a Comboni missionary and artist, is remembered for his ultimate sacrifice while defending the rights of farmers and the Suru natives of the Rondônia area in Brazil against local landowners. His selfless act of charity and dedication to the poor and oppressed earned him the title "Martyr of Charity" from Pope John Paul II.
Ezechiele Ramin was born on February 9, 1953, in Padua, Italy, to a modest family of six sons. He attended a Catholic school, Collegio Vescovile Gregorio Barbarigo, where he became aware of the widespread poverty in the world. This awareness sparked a desire in him to make a difference, leading him to join the charity Mani Tese (Outstretched Hands) and organize fundraising camps to support small projects.
In 1972, Ramin decided to join the Comboni Missionaries of the Heart of Jesus, which led him to move to Florence, Venegono Inferiore, and eventually to Chicago, where he graduated from Catholic Theological Union. During his studies, he served in the St. Ludmila Parish and later worked with impoverished Native Americans in South Dakota and Baja California, Mexico.
On September 28, 1980, Ramin was ordained a priest in his native Padua. His early assignments took him to Naples, where he organized a peaceful demonstration against the camorra, and later to Troia in Apulia, where he worked with vocational groups.
In 1984, Ramin was assigned to Cacoal, Rondônia, Brazil, where he worked tirelessly to defend the rights of farmers and the Suru natives against local landowners. His advocacy for the oppressed put him in direct conflict with the powerful, ultimately leading to his tragic murder on July 24, 1985.
Ezechiele Ramin's sacrifice did not go in vain. His martyrdom brought international attention to the plight of the Suru natives and the struggles of the farmers in Rondônia. His bravery and selflessness inspired countless individuals to work towards creating a more just and equitable society.
Ramin's life and work were guided by a deep commitment to the principles of charity, justice, and compassion. He believed in the inherent dignity and worth of every human being, regardless of their background or circumstances.
His philosophy was rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who taught that the greatest commandment is to "love thy neighbor as thyself." Ramin's life was a testament to the power of this teaching, as he dedicated himself to serving the poor and marginalized, even in the face of great danger.
"The Lord has given us a great gift: the gift of life. Let us use it to serve others and to bring about justice and peace."
Ramin's words continue to inspire and motivate individuals to work towards creating a more just and compassionate world.
Ezechiele Ramin's sacrifice took place during a tumultuous period in Brazilian history, marked by conflict over land rights and social inequality. His martyrdom brought attention to these issues and inspired a new generation of social justice advocates.
Born in 1506
Co-founder of the Society of Jesus, a Catholic religious order, known for his missionary work in Asia, especially in India and Japan, and for his role in the Counter-Reformation. He's revered for his tireless efforts to spread Christianity and his compassion for the poor and marginalized.
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64 Years Old
Academy Award-nominated screenwriter and producer behind iconic films like Gladiator, The Aviator, and Skyfall, known for crafting complex characters and gripping narratives.
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Led the Catholic Church during a tumultuous period, reforming the Church's finances and combating corruption, while also opposing the French monarch's attempts to exert control over the Church.
