Enrique Angelelli
Enrique Ángel Angelelli Carletti (17 July 1923 – 4 August 1976) was a prominent bishop of the Catholic Church in Argentina whose life and death are significant in the context of the country's tumultuous political history. He was a vocal advocate for social justice and human rights, and his efforts to support marginalized communities during a period of intense political repression led to his assassination in 1976.
Early Life and Education
Enrique Angelelli was born to Juan Angelelli and Celina Carletti, two Italian immigrants in Córdoba, Argentina. His parents were devout Catholics, which greatly influenced his life path. At the age of 15, Angelelli entered the Seminary of Our Lady of Loretto, where he studied humanities and philosophy. In 1947, he traveled to Rome to complete his priestly studies at the Pontifical Pius Latin America College.
Ecclesiastical Career
In 1960, Pope John XXIII appointed Angelelli as the auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Córdoba and the titular bishop of Lystra. He was consecrated on 12 March 1961. Angelelli became known for his commitment to the principles of the Second Vatican Council, which advocated for reforms within the church and emphasized pastoral care and engagement with the modern world.
Advocacy and Conflict
Angelelli's tenure as bishop of the Diocese of La Rioja was marked by his outspoken support for the poor and oppressed. He was a staunch critic of the social and economic inequalities that plagued Argentina, and he frequently clashed with both the government and elites over issues of justice and human rights. His advocacy put him at odds with the ruling military junta during Argentina's Dirty War, a period characterized by widespread state terrorism.
Assassination and Legacy
On 4 August 1976, Angelelli was assassinated under circumstances that were initially disguised as a car accident. However, it was later revealed that his death was a targeted killing orchestrated by the military regime. Angelelli was martyred for his faith and commitment to justice, and in June 2018, Pope Francis recognized him as a martyr, paving the way for his beatification. This significant event took place on 27 April 2019 in La Rioja.
Beatification
Enrique Angelelli was beatified alongside his three companions who also died during the Dirty War. This ceremony was a powerful acknowledgment of their sacrifice and the Catholic Church's role in advocating for human rights during one of Argentina's darkest periods.