General from 1652 to 1652


Such a short time had passed since the preceding General Congregation, but with Piccolomini's death another had to be called to elect his successor. So, it was called for January 7, 1652 and would last eventually until March 20. Gottifredi was a Roman by birth, born in 1595 and entered the Society in 1610. He was a well-known preacher in Rome and a teacher
of Philosophy and Theology at the Roman College. For a while he was Secretary to Father Vitelleschi and later Roman Provincial. His credentials and lineage were in order for him to be elected by the 10th General Congregation. Two weeks after the Congregation had begun on January 21 Gottifredi was elected General at the age of 57. The Congregation was to have its last session on March 20, but before it could be terminated Gottifredi died on March 12 having been General only two months after a week's illness.

The Senior Assistant immediately took charge. This was Father Banfo the Vicar General, who was to call for another election within a few days.

Gottifredi's remains were placed with those of the previous Generals in the Ossuary in the crypt of the Gesú.