VIZZINI, GIUSEPPE. - Theologian and bishop, born at Villalba (Caltanissetta) on 10 Nov. 1874, died at Ferla (Noto) on 8 Dec. 1935.
A student at the Leonian College in Rome, he graduated with distinction in philosophy, theology, and canon law at S. Apollinare, where he subsequently held the chairs of philosophy, ecclesiastical history, and sacramental theology. A keen and versatile intellect, he anchored theological speculation in the texts of Scripture and Tradition, and for this purpose began the Bibliotheca Sanctorum Patrum (series graeca et latina, 22 vols., Rome 1901 ff.), in which he displays fine theological sensitivity in his commentaries on the more obscure or controversial passages of the authors published. The De S. ma Eucharistia (lithographed, Rome 1912) reflects V.’s finest didactic qualities. Appointed bishop of Noto by Blessed Pio X (19 Aug. 1913), he renewed the diocese through notable works (reorganization of the Seminary and the Curia, diocesan synod, reform of worship, promotion of Catholic Action, foundation of the Work for priestly vocations, establishment of about 40 new parishes). The Religioze Domenicane del S. Cuore di Gesù found in V. a wise reorganizer, who, by means of appropriate constitutions, directed their apostolate in accordance with the needs of the times.