Fr. Luigi Faccenda, OFM Conv. 1920-2005

Father Luigi Faccenda, OFM Conv
 Biography: En Espanol   In English

On August 5, 2005 I arrived for the first time at the "Village of the Immaculata" in Borgonuovo (BO), Italy.  I had been living with the Fr. Kolbe Missionaries in West Covina for only two months - exactly.  When I entered I NEVER imagined that I would be in Italy two months later.  Yet, there I was - at the heart of the Institute - and it began to sink in that I had indeed entered a family.

Every family has a father - and this family was no exception. I was immediately (quite literally) taken to the second floor to see Father Faccenda.  He was very thin, tired, using a catheter, and serene. His eyes were particularly bright as we entered the room.  It was clear that he rejoiced in seeing his daughters  - one faithful for so many years  (Anna Brizzi) and the other "born" in Argentina only a few months prior. So acute - in fact - was his love of the Institute and its happenings that although he didn't seem to remember my name or make many connections, he knew one thing: I had said "yes" while I was in Argentina and I loved the spirituality.  So it was that upon prodding, he would call me by name: "Jilly" - but his immediate choice when I entered the room a few more times: "Argentina!"  For me this epitomized his paternal care for each missionary and the whole consecrated family - but most dear to him: our mission, our holiness, our consecrated life.

Father Faccenda passed away only two months later.  I was the last American, and one of the last missionaries to enter and see our founder. I received communion from him, received his blessing, talked with him, and more than once was instructed by a determined tap on the cheek to impart "un baccio." (a kiss)  From the stories told by my missionary sisters, I know he was a stubborn, excitable, demanding man. These same stories, however, also reveal a patiently suffering, loving, insightful, heroic man. I know from first hand experience that he was brilliant, and from their stories that he was humble.  Most of all, first hand, I know that he continues to be much beloved by his missionary daughters.

At some point, all fathers must "give away" their daughters. Again, with Fr. Faccenda there was no exception. He saw them come and go, suffer and heal, fall and get back up again. He was elated at their spiritual growth and pained by spiritual sloth or pettiness. Finally, on the day of his great "wedding feast" - his daughters were asked to give him away. October 9, 2005 was the end of an era.

Yet, from Father Faccenda continues to guide and inspire. And, if one listens well - to scold and plead out of love of his spiritual daughters, their mission, and the family he lovingly - even if imperfectly - raised to spiritual motherhood.

Jillian