LOBO, ALFONSO. - Spanish preacher of the second half of the 16th century, first a Discalced Friar Minor, then a Capuchin, born at Medina (Andalusia), died at Barcelona, most probably in 1593. Already famous throughout Spain for his preaching, in 1573 he came to Italy and, having entered the Capuchins, continued to hold sway over crowds captivated by his ardent eloquence, authenticated by virtue. Such was his success that the saying of Gregory XIII became proverbial: «Toletus docet, Panigarola delectat, Lupus (L.) movet».
L. enjoyed the favour of St Pius V and Gregory XIII. He was a close friend of St Philip, who had him preach the first Lenten sermons in the Chiesa Nuova (S. Maria in Vallicella), as soon as it was opened to the public. The cities of Italy competed for him, and St Charles wanted him in Milan, wishing for many such “wolves” to guard his flock. Federico Borromeo called him: “The foremost sacred orator of his time, and perhaps of all times.”