Luigi Versiglia was born in Oliva Gessi (Pavia) on June 5, 1873. He arrived at Don Bosco's Oratory at twelve and became a Salesian Priest. Following his ordination in 1895, he dedicated a decade to serving as a novice master in Genzano di Roma. In 1906, he spearheaded the inaugural Salesian missionary mission to China, realizing a prophecy frequently mentioned by Don Bosco. After setting up a ‘mother house’ in Macau, he launched a mission in the Shiu Chow region. He was appointed its first bishop on April 22, 1920.

He was a person of knowledge and relentless vigor, a true shepherd wholeheartedly committed to his herd. He provided his Vicariate with a strong infrastructure, including a seminary, formation houses, multiple residences, an orphanage, and homes for the elderly. He was more a dad than an authoritarian figure. He exemplified hard work and Christian love, never requesting anything from others without first considering their abilities.

On February 25, 1930, he was accompanied by Don Caravario and five other young individuals, heading to meet the small Christian Community at Lin Chow (Li Tau Tseu). A band of armed men halted them, initially demanding extortion money, and subsequently attempted to abduct the three women in the group. Don Versiglia and Don Caravario blocked their path, but they were pushed to the ground and restrained. Their crucifixes were torn from them, and while they prayed, they were killed.

Don Versiglia and Don Caravario were canonized by Pope John Paul II on October 1, 2000, and their Feast Day is observed on November 13. This is the date when every Salesian Community holds a Mass for deceased benefactors and members of the Salesian Family.

Other Saints of the Day
St. Donatus
St. Tarasius
St. Aventanus
St. Nestor of Magydos
St. Caesarius of Nazianzus