The spiritual legacy and heritage of Saint Luigi Guanella remain an integral part of the mission of Catholic Charities of Philadelphia’s Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services.
The Communities of Don Guanella and Divine Providence (DGDP), a ministry of Catholic Charities of Philadelphia (CCoP), will mark the feast of their patron, Saint Luigi Guanella (Don Guanella) with a Mass of Thanksgiving.
Most Reverend Efren V. Esmilla, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, will be the principal celebrant and homilist.
Friday, October 24, 2025
11:00 a.m.
Our Lady of Fatima Church
1 Fatima Drive
Secane, PA 19018
Men and women served by The Communities of DGDP as well as their families and caregivers will be in attendance for this prayerful occasion. Supporters and benefactors of the program are also invited to participate.
In addition to Mass, the day marks The Communities of DGDP’s fourth annual Day of Giving. This initiative invites supporters to show their support for the 400 men and women that make up The Communities of DGDP as well as the program’s mission of embracing persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) with professional and compassionate care. Those interested in supporting The Communities of DGDP and our neighbors in need can donate here.
Background Information on Saint Luigi Guanella (Don Guanella)
Saint Luigi Guanella was a 19th-century Italian priest who ministered to children with IDD. Don Guanella’s patronage stems from the historical context on which The Communities of DGDP were founded. A priest and founder of the Religious Orders of the Servants of Charity and the Daughters of Saint Mary of Providence, and the Pious Union of Saint Joseph Prayer Association, Don Guanella advocated for further acceptance of individuals with IDD as brothers and sisters and as blessings from God.
Editor’s Note: The Communities of Don Guanella and Divine Providence (DGDP) are dedicated to transforming the lives of individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Dedicated staff and volunteers provide a continuum of care offering a wide range of programming options including: Community and Campus-Based Living Arrangements, Life Sharing Through Family Living, Respite Care, and Day Programs. For more information, please visit https://dgdpcommunities.org/.
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Contact:
Katie Rogers
Media and Events Specialist for Catholic Charities of Philadelphia
215-587-3747 (office)