Gerigio, Otherworldly Protector of St. John Bosco

Don Bosco's mission in life was to help young boys turn away from the crime that was prevalent in the slums of Turin and become good citizens. In the course of his work, he made many enemies, some of whom would try to murder or harm him.

The first meeting with Gerigio was not remarkable. Bosco was walking through the slums when he noticed the huge wolf like canine following him. The streets of Turin were filled with stray dogs. What made this animal stand out was his size. Perhaps, at first, Bosco was apprehensive as people tend to be when followed by a large dog.

Finally, Bosco called to the animal and he walked toward the priest and allowed himself to be petted. Bosco walked to the Pinardi house where he lived. When the priest reached the door, the dog trotted off.

One fall evening in 1852, Bosco was walking home and a burly man with a large club silently followed him. He drew close to the priest and raised the club. Bosco tried to ward off the intended blow, but Gerigio sprung at the would be assailant, saving the priest. The animal growled furiously and knocked the thug to the ground. The man was filled with fear and cried for help. He got up and raced away. The dog followed him, growling with menace. Bosco called out to the animal. Gerigio stood and watched the fleeing criminal, then, when the man was out of sight, trotted to the priest.

When Bosco reached home and opened the door, Gerigio trotted away as was his custom.

Another time, Bosco was walking through the Valdocco quarter at night and two shots were fired from behind a tree. The shooter charged at Bosco. The two men struggled but Gerigio appeared and leapt at the thug's throat, fangs bared, snarling with a mission until the man fled.

The dog appeared at the door regularly whenever Bosco went out at night.

One night, when Bosco was going to go out, he found Gerigio lying on the threshold, blocking his way. The priest petted the dog and tried to get him to move, but the dog growled at him and would not let him pass. Bosco decided not to go out and the dog trotted away. Not long after the dog left, friend came running up and told the priest that there was a plan to kill him that night.

Finally, Bosco's life became safer and he was no longer in danger. Gerigio did not appear anymore because the priest's life no longer needed protecting.

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