Today the Church remembers Saint Paul of the Cross, born Paolo Francesco Danei, an 18th-century Piedmontese priest whose life was entirely shaped by a deep and mystical Marian inspiration. Founder of the Congregation of the Clerics Regular of the Passion of Jesus Christ (the Passionists) and the Passionist Nuns, Paul consecrated his existence to meditating on and spreading the memory of the Passion of Jesus Christ, considered the most stupendous work of divine love. Throughout his life, he distinguished himself as one of the greatest and most sought-after preachers and spiritual directors of his century, capable of touching hearts and guiding countless souls on the path of conversion and deep contemplation of the Mystery of the Cross.
