Argentine Priest, Noted For Evangelizing Through Social Media, Dies at 51.

Quezon City, Philippines, February 4, 2025: Rev. Fr. Luciano Ariel Felloni, an Argentine priest renowned for his evangelization efforts on social media and his dedicated work in rehabilitating drug addicts in the Philippines, passed away on February 2, 2025, after a courageous battle with skin cancer. The Diocese of Novaliches confirmed his passing, sharing the news on social media and expressing deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers from the community.

“With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Fr. Luciano Felloni today,” the Diocese stated in a Facebook post. “Your love and compassion have been a source of strength and comfort to us all.”

Felloni, 51, arrived in the Philippines in the early 2000s and began his ministry at the Mother of Divine Providence Parish in Payatas, Quezon City. He later served at the Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Caloocan City, where he created a parish-based rehabilitation program for drug users amidst the country’s controversial anti-drug campaign. Through counseling and outreach, he helped individuals on the Philippine National Police's drug watchlist turn their lives around.

Kalookan Bishop and Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David paid tribute to Felloni’s impactful work. “I am deeply saddened by the loss of this devoted priest who left his homeland and religious congregation to serve the Diocese of Novaliches in the Philippines,” Cardinal David said in a Facebook post. “It was our common experience with extra-judicial killings (EJK) during the infamous drug war of the previous government that we found ourselves communicating with each other more often, especially in regard to our common concerns about caring for the widows and orphans of EJK victims,” he added.

Felloni’s final assignment was as parish priest at Jesus, Lord of the Divine Mercy Parish in Mapayapa Village, Quezon City. He also served as the Social Communications Director of the Diocese of Novaliches and co-host of Radyo Veritas 846’s Barangay Simbayanan program.

His digital ministry, AMULSALITA—a blend of the Tagalog words almusal (breakfast) and salita (word)—earned him widespread recognition. Through AMULSALITA, he shared daily Gospel reflections on his social media channels, inviting viewers to engage with Scripture over breakfast. His innovative use of social media to spread the Word of God earned him several awards. His daily Bible reflections, delivered fluently in Filipino, touched many and built a large online following.

Father Felloni’s commitment to faith and social justice leaves an enduring legacy in the communities he served. Further details regarding arrangements for his funeral are expected to be announced by the Diocese of Novaliches soon.

Source: Radio Veritas Asia