Giovanni Innocenzo Martinelli facts for kids
Giovanni Innocenzo Martinelli was an Italian Catholic leader. He was born in Libya on February 5, 1942. He passed away in Italy on December 30, 2019. He was a special bishop for the city of Tripoli in Libya. He belonged to the Franciscan Order.
Contents
Early Life and Priesthood
Giovanni Martinelli was born in Italian Libya. When he was a child, his family moved to Italy. He decided to become a priest. In 1967, he became a Catholic priest. Four years later, in 1971, he returned to live in Libya.
Becoming a Bishop in Tripoli
In 1985, Giovanni Martinelli was given an important role. He became the Vicar Apostolic of Tripoli. This means he was a special bishop in charge of the Catholic community there. He also became a Titular Bishop of Tabuda. This is an honorary title for a bishop.
Standing Up for Peace in Libya
During a difficult time in Libya, a civil war began. Bishop Martinelli spoke out for peace. He asked world leaders to talk with the country's leader, Muammar al-Gaddafi. He believed that talking was better than fighting. He felt that without Gaddafi, Libya might face more conflict.
Speaking Against Bombings
In 2011, other countries got involved in the conflict. They used military force, including bombings. Bishop Martinelli strongly disagreed with these actions. He believed they would not help bring peace to Libya.
Staying with His Community
In February 2015, Libya faced another big crisis. A group called ISIS tried to take control. Many people left the country. But Bishop Martinelli chose to stay. He was the last Italian person left in that area.
He faced serious threats. But he said he was ready to die if needed. He wanted to stay and support the last 300 Catholics living in Libya. His courage showed his strong faith.
Later Years and Retirement
Bishop Martinelli's health became very poor. Because of this, he had to leave Libya for good. He returned to Italy on October 22, 2015. On his 75th birthday, February 5, 2017, he officially retired. Pope Francis accepted his retirement.
Bishop George Bugeja took over his role in Tripoli. Bishop Bugeja was already there before Martinelli left. Bishop Martinelli's health continued to get worse. He was cared for by the Friars Minor in Saccolongo, Italy. He passed away there on December 30, 2019.
See also
- Catholic Church in Libya
- Italian Libya
