A look at the latest news from Bologna on the eve of the beatification of the three priests: Martino Capelli (SCJ), Elia Comini (SDB), and Ubaldo Marchioni.
On the eve of the beatification of the Dehonian priest Martino Capelli (SCJ), the Salesian priest Elia Comini (SDB), and the diocesan priest Ubaldo Marchioni this Sunday, September 27 in Bologna, we bring you a round-up of key events happening in and around Bologna:
The Exhibition “Cuore ferito: Il mistero del sangue di Monte Sole”The exhibition “Cuore ferito: Il mistero del sangue di Monte Sole” (“Wounded Heart: The Mystery of the Blood of Monte Sole”), on display in Bologna from September 23 to October 1, 2026, retraces the dramatic massacre of Monte Sole through a spiritual and symbolic journey linked to the lives of the three Blessed Priests and the 770 victims.
The Franciscan Festival
As part of the 800th anniversary of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi, the 18th edition of the Franciscan Festival explores the theme “Sorella Morte” (“Sister Death”). The event is taking place in the Piazza di San Petronio from September 24 to 27.
Meeting of the Geocultural Area Coordinators with the General Government
On the margins of the beatification of Father Martino Capelli, the meeting of the Coordinators of the Congregation’s Geocultural Areas with the Superior General and his Council took place in Bologna on September 24 and 25, 2026.
Reception of an Icon of Martino Capelli in Nembro
Over the past few days, an icon of Father Martino Capelli, SCJ, was welcomed in the church of his hometown in Nembro. The icon was created by artist Marina Bonalberti.
Handover of the Relic and Reliquary for the Beatification
On the afternoon of September 25, the official handover of the relic and reliquary for the beatification of Father Martino Capelli took place. The reliquary was crafted in Rome.
Presentation of New Publications
On Saturday, September 26, several publications dedicated to Martino Capelli (SCJ), Elia Comini (SDB), and Ubaldo Marchioni will be presented. Of special note is the book by Lodovica Maria Zanet, which highlights the priestly friendship that united Salesian Elia Comini and Dehonian Martino Capelli all the way to martyrdom:
📖Testimoni di speranza disarmata. Elia Comini e Martino Capelli fratelli nel Martirio (Elledici Publishing, 2026).
