Don Mazzi, the founder of the Exodus Project: "A life for welcoming" has died at the age of 96

Don Antonio Mazzi, founder of Exodus, has died at the age of 96. He passed away this afternoon in his historic home within the Parco Lambro in Milan, surrounded by the affection of his young people and educators. A lifelong advocate for youth support and a fierce opponent of drug addiction, Mazzi's death marks the end of a life dedicated to care and education. Born in Verona in 1929, Mazzi was ordained a priest in the Congregation of the Poor Servants of Divine Providence in Ferrara. From an early stage, he pursued studies in pedagogy and psychology, focusing on developmental stages and disability. Over time, he earned four honorary doctorates in pedagogy. His career took a pivotal turn in 1979 when he became director of the Opera don Calabria in Milan’s Via Pusiano, near an area known for drug trafficking. It was there that he first recognized the severity of drug addiction and conceived the Exodus project, aiming to provide alternative paths to prison and recovery. The Exodus initiative began with Mazzi cleaning up the Parco Lambro and requesting, and receiving, permission to occupy the Molino Torrette farmhouse, which would become the foundation of the organization’s projects. From that point onward, he lived directly among the activities of Exodus, engaging actively with its programs. Beyond his religious duties, Mazzi was a journalist and author of several books. He became well-known to Italians through appearances on television and radio shows, offering commentary and hosting regular segments such as “Don Mazzi dà i numeri” on RTL 102.5. Mazzi’s legacy includes not only the establishment of Exodus but also the creation of associations and cooperatives in Italy and abroad, particularly in impoverished regions. These efforts were driven by his belief in human potential and the value of compassion. The community of Exodus expressed deep gratitude for his unwavering commitment to welcoming and educating vulnerable individuals over more than forty years. Funeral services will take place on Monday at 3 p.m. in the Basilica of Saint Ambrose. A wake will be held at the historical Exodus location, Cascina Molino Torrette, in the Parco Lambro, open to everyone without formalities. The wake will be available Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to noon and again from 5 to 8 p.m. The funeral service will be described as a lively liturgy, featuring songs, music, and speeches from the youth and educators affiliated with Exodus worldwide. Mayor of Milan, Beppe Sala, has declared a citywide mourning period for Mazzi. President Sergio Mattarella praised Mazzi as a priest, educator, and communicator who devoted his entire life to serving the marginalized and fragile: the excluded, the poor, the disabled, and the drug-addicted. The president noted that Mazzi offered a testimony of social and civic engagement, both vigorous and often courageous, in the formation of youth, the creation of environments and opportunities, often innovative, for solidarity and friendship. He extended the Republic’s solidarity and closeness to Mazzi’s community and his young people. Vice Premier and Transport Minister Matteo Salvini described Mazzi as a man with a large heart, who gave his life to the last, the most fragile, and thousands of youths, helping them escape drugs and regain hope. They had engaged in heated discussions, always with passion. Mazzi represented one of the souls of Milan, attentive to the neighbor, close to the youth.