Egidio Galea facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Reverend Egidio Galea OSA MBE |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Church | Catholic Church |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 5 May 1918 Birgu, Malta |
| Died | 3 January 2005 (aged 86) Birgu, Malta |
| Buried | St. Lawrence Cemetery, Birgu |
| Alma mater | Pontifical Gregorian University (STD) |
Egidio Galea (born May 5, 1918 – died January 3, 2005) was a Maltese Catholic priest. He was part of the Order of Saint Augustine, a group of priests. Father Galea was also a missionary and a teacher. He played an important role in helping people during World War II in Italy. He worked closely with another priest, Hugh O'Flaherty, to save many lives.
Contents
A Look at His Life
Early Years and School
Egidio Galea was born in Birgu, Malta, on May 5, 1918. He went to school in Senglea and later in Valletta. In 1933, when he was 15, he joined the Order of Saint Augustine. This was a big step towards becoming a priest. After studying for several years, he went to Rome in 1937. There, he studied theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University. He earned a special degree in theology.
Helping Others During World War II
While in Rome, Father Galea met Hugh O'Flaherty. Father O'Flaherty was an Irish priest who worked for the Vatican. During World War II, Italy was under the control of the Nazis. Father O'Flaherty was working to help and hide thousands of people. These included Jewish people and soldiers from the Allied countries.
Father O'Flaherty needed help with this very dangerous work. Father Galea became one of his most trusted helpers. Together, they worked to save over 6,500 Allied soldiers and Jewish people. They helped them hide or escape to safety. After the war ended, Father Galea was honored for his bravery. He was made a member of the Order of the British Empire. This was a special award from the British government.
Later Life and Work
In 1945, Father Galea returned to Malta. He became a teacher for young Augustinian priests. He taught them about the Scripture. From 1955 to 1961, he worked as a missionary in Tunisia. He also taught Latin there.
In 1961, he came back to Malta. From 1967 to 1971, he was a leader for the Augustinian Order in Malta. Later, from 1984 to 1990, he taught at the Augustinian Institute. This institute is part of the University of Malta. Father Galea also wrote many articles and books. His writings were mostly about Augustine of Hippo and the Augustinian Order.
Father Egidio Galea passed away on January 3, 2005. He was 86 years old. He is buried in the Santa Maria Addolorata Cemetery in Paola.
