The Archbishop of the Diocese of Matera-Irsina and Bishop of Tricarico, Monsignor Benoni Ambarus, delivered a heartfelt eulogy at the funeral of Father Basilio Gavazzeni, who passed away on Friday, August 29th, in the city of Matera at the age of 80. Describing the late priest’s life as a model for all to follow, the bishop stated, “His example is an open path that we all must walk. His is a legacy that we cannot squander.”
The funeral service was held this morning in the Parish of Sant’Agnese in Matera, the community where Father Gavazzeni served as a spiritual shepherd and guide for decades. Hundreds gathered to pay their final respects to the Montfortian missionary, who dedicated his priestly life to defending society’s most vulnerable and taking a firm stance against the scourges of usury and gambling addiction.
Monsignor Ambarus added, “His way of living the priesthood was always current and fresh, capable of entering into the folds of people’s lives and keeping watch as a sentinel, without compromise. He lived his life with a great openness.”
Born in Verdello (Bergamo) on July 7, 1945, and ordained a priest in 1971, Father Basilio spent the majority of his life in Matera. He served as the administrator of the Santissimo Crocifisso parish until September 30, 2020. In recent years, he led the Lucanian Anti-Usury Foundation ‘Mons. Vincenzo Cavalla’ as president of its board of directors.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Prefect Cristina Favilli, City Councillor for Transport Daniele Fragasso (representing the City Council), Chief of Staff Maria Rita Iaculli, and Luciano Gualzetti, President of the National Anti-Usury Council.