A special event to pay tribute to Father Carlos Crespo Croci

Cuenca, lunes 29 abril 2024
Father Luciano Bellini during his speech
Father Luciano Bellini during his speech

 

The Salesian Inspectorate of Ecuador, Universidad Politécnica Salesiana (UPS) and the Pro-Cause Committee for the Beatification of Father Calros Crespi Croci. commemorated the 42 years of his death by having a formal and cultural event to remember his life and work in Ecuador, especially in the city of Cuenca. His legacy is a testimony of his charisma, innovative personality, marked by a commitment service dedicated to children and young people.


The aim was to highlight the figure of Fr. Crespi, known as the “Apostle of the poor”, as part of the process for his Beatification and Canonization, initiated in 2002 by Fr. Luciano Bellini, then the founding rector of UPS and current supporter of the Cause of Beatification.


The event was divided into two parts, the first included the presentation of the story “Crespi, más allá de las cenizas” written by Fernando Pesántez, General Vice President of the University. The story is dedicated to the memory of Father Crespi, set in the historical and educational context, rich in cultural and social elements. They also presented a website: carloscrespi.com aimed at making his life, works and teachings known about. The site also includes a photo gallery and testimonials from those who had the privilege of knowing him.


The second part included the participation of the “Big Band” orchestra from the “José María Rodríguez” Conservatory of Music; they performed several compositions written by Fr. Crespi. There was also the emotional presentation of the "The Musical: Crespi Choral Recital ", written by Johnny Vallejo together with musicians from the city, the university choir and the performance of Piotr Zalamea who personified Father Crespi during the event


 
The event was attended by the Archbishop of Cuenca, Marcos Aurelio Pérez, Fernando Ortega, as well as clergy priests, Salesians, authorities, directors and representatives of Salesian works, educational institutions and other special guests. 

 

In April we remember the death of Father Carlos Crespi, who, upon his arrival in Cuenca, dedicated his life to serving people, especially those most in need. Crespi had multiple facets, as a Salesian missionary, educator, musician, creator of a "Instrumental Music Band", with 150 young musicians. He was also a film enthusiast, who organized screenings for street children on holidays. He became an apostle for the citizens of Cuenca, he was well known for his dedication to children, for guiding them on the right path. On the day of his death and burial, the population of Cuenca took to the streets to say goodbye to a holy priest. Many stories are told about Father Crespi and even miracles are attributed to him.