GIZZI, PASQUALE TOMMASO. – Cardinal, born at Ceccano (Frosinone) on 22 September 1787, died at Lenola on 3 July 1849. After completing his early studies at Ferentino and obtaining degrees in canon and civil law at the Sapienza, he became a rotal advocate in 1819. Sent to Switzerland in 1820 as auditor with the nuncio Nasalli, he was appointed internuncio in 1827 and handled difficult matters concerning property and jurisdiction in the Church with acumen
and competence.
He was subsequently chargé d’affaires at Turin (1829–1835), delegate of Ancona (1837–39), internuncio in Belgium (1839–41), and nuncio at Turin (1841–44). Gregory XVI created him cardinal, reserving him in pectore at the Consistory of 12 July 1841 and publishing his appointment at that of 22 January 1844. Appointed legate of Forlì in 1844, he remained there for two years and displayed great prudence and moderation; owing to his conciliatory spirit, he won sincere sympathies even among the liberals. It is enough to recall his delicate, serene, and at the same time firm action during the disturbances at Rimini (1845).
At the death of Gregory XVI (1846), his election to the pontificate was hoped for in many quarters; indeed, during the Conclave, his election was taken for certain, and the crowd, as a sign of joy, invaded his residence, carrying away everything it could find. Pius IX, who held his governing abilities in sincere esteem, appointed him Secretary of State on 2 August 1846. Overcoming immense difficulties, Cardinal G. remained in that office until July 1847, and did not belie his diplomatic training, his sense of moderation, or his extensive experience in handling the most important affairs.