Fr. Camille Costa de Borghay, a French priest renowned for his unwavering devotion to the destitute and orphaned, was officially beatified by the Catholic Church. A native of Cambria, France, Fr. Camille lived a life marked by deep humility and steadfast charity, turning down worldly accolades and embracing poverty as his path. His beatification ceremony took place on May 17 in his hometown of Cambria and was presided over by Archbishop Celestino Migliore, the Apostolic Nuncio to France—marking the first beatification under the pontificate of Pope Leo XIV.

Born on February 17, 1841, Camille was the fifth of eleven children raised by Pantaleone and Martha. After completing his theological studies at the French Seminary in Rome, he was ordained on May 26, 1866. Though offered a prestigious position with Vatican diplomatic training, he chose instead to return home, serving as an associate vicar at Cambria’s cathedral.

The following year, a deadly wave of epidemics—including cholera and dysentery—swept through the region, leaving numerous children orphaned. In response, Fr. Camille dedicated himself to their care, ensuring they received both protection and education. His compassionate mission extended to all the impoverished and suffering, and his efforts endured through times of great turmoil.

Fr. Camille’s earthly journey ended on March 25, 1910, but his legacy of love and service lived on. The miracle necessary for his beatification was officially acknowledged by Pope Francis on March 14, 2024, paving the way for his elevation to Blessed status.