Vatican City, October 19, 2025 – Pope Leo XIV presided over a canonization Mass at St. Peter’s Square, formally recognizing seven individuals as saints. Among those canonized was Bartolo Longo, a figure noted for his conversion from involvement in occult practices to a life dedicated to Catholic philanthropy. This ceremony followed an Ordinary Public Consistory in June 2025, where the candidates for sainthood were approved.
Story Highlights
- Pope Leo XIV canonized seven new saints, including Bartolo Longo, a former Satanic priest.
- Longo’s conversion from occult leader to Catholic philanthropist was highlighted.
- The canonization ceremony took place at St. Peter’s Square on October 19, 2025.
- The Church emphasized themes of redemption and transformation.
Former Satanic Priest Achieves Sainthood
Bartolo Longo, born in 1841, was raised Catholic but reportedly became involved in occult practices during a personal crisis, eventually being ordained as a priest in a Satanic sect. His subsequent conversion led him back to Catholicism, after which he dedicated his life to charitable works in Pompei, Italy. The Church presented this as an example of redemption and second chances.
Pope Leo XIV will canonize seven new saints on Sunday including an Italian lawyer who renounced Satanism and became “an apostle of the rosary,” a martyred Armenian archbishop, and a Venezuelan considered the “doctor of the poor.”
The canonizations, previously approved by the… pic.twitter.com/dYCSB6su9U
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Seven Saints Recognized in Vatican Ceremony
The canonization Mass, led by Pope Leo XIV, formally recognized seven individuals as saints. In addition to Bartolo Longo, the newly canonized saints include Ignatius Choukrallah Maloyan from Armenia, Peter To Rot from Papua New Guinea, and José Gregorio Hernández from Venezuela. The ceremony was the culmination of months of preparation. The diverse backgrounds and geographical origins of the saints were noted as reflecting the universal nature of Catholic sanctity.
Church Emphasizes Mercy and Transformation
Catholic scholars have commented on Bartolo Longo’s canonization as a reflection of the Church’s teachings on mercy and spiritual transformation. During the Mass, Pope Leo XIV underscored the role of these saints as models of faith and perseverance. The Vatican’s decision to canonize a former Satanic priest was presented as reinforcing the Catholic doctrine that forgiveness is available for all sins when accompanied by genuine repentance and conversion.
Global Impact on Catholic Communities
The canonization of these seven saints is anticipated to have an impact on Catholic communities globally, particularly in regions associated with each saint’s ministry. Bartolo Longo’s story is expected to generate interest in conversion narratives and the Church’s outreach efforts. Local dioceses and religious communities connected to the newly canonized saints are reportedly preparing for increased pilgrimage and devotional activities.
Watch the report: Former Satanic Priest Among Seven New Saints Created By Pope Leo XIV | 10 News
Sources:
Ex-Satanic Priest Among 7 New Saints Declared By Pope Leo.
Ex-Satanic priest among seven new saints created by Pope Leo
Ex-Satanic priest among seven new saints created by Pope Leo
