BRINDISI – One of the most beloved bishops in the history of Brindisi has reached a century of life. Monsignor Settimio Todisco will blow out one hundred candles today (Friday 10 May), at the residence of “Villa Specchia”, where he has been staying for some time. In reality the prelate was born on 5 May 1924 in his native Brindisi, but was declared to the registry office only five days later. At the time, moreover, it was common practice for there to be a misalignment between the day of birth and that of registration.
Todisco was ordained a priest at the age of 20. After working as a teacher in the Ostuni seminary, in the 1950s he became rector of the Brindisi seminary. In 1962 he held the role of vicar general. Then he was appointed apostolic prothonotary. In that period he taught religion at the classical high school. On 15 February 1970 he was ordained bishop.
Five years later he was promoted to the archbishopric of Brindisi. He held the position for 25 years, until 5 February 2000, when he became bishop emeritus. In the meantime, the diocese of Ostuni had been absorbed into that of Brindisi, thus giving life to the archdiocese of Brindisi – Ostuni.
Todisco had established a highly empathetic relationship with the citizens. The people of Brindisi appreciated his sensitivity and openness to discussion. His strong attention to workers’ rights. A very prominent issue in a city that in 1977 was shocked by the tragedy of the P2t explosion: a drama that also deeply affected Bishop Todisco.
Its motto, established in 1995, was “Corde et fide” (with the heart and with faith). From his height of 1.90 metres, his stature could inspire awe, but in reality Todisco posed himself with modesty and humility. Always present in the most important moments of the city’s history, he was the promoter of various humanitarian missions in Africa. On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of his episcopate, Pope Francis sent him a message of good wishes.
Today he will celebrate his century of life surrounded by the affection of the people who are close to him and who have taken care of him for years.
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