Former state representative Carlo Basile and his older brothers, Alex, Anthony, and Paul, will hold a rededication ceremony Saturday for the newly renovated observatory at the Madonna of the Universe Shrine that will honor the memory of their mother, Teresa Basile, who passed away on March 26, 2026.
Mrs. Basile immigrated from Italy to the United States of America and raised four boys on her own following the death of her husband, Anselmo Basile.
Basile said the idea for the tribute to his mother was initiated after he visited the observatory area and determined that major renovations were needed.
Carlo reached out to attorney Jeff Turco, who is counsel to the Sons of Divine Provence, and Turco set up a meeting with the Rev. Angelo Alvarez, one of the priests at the Don Orione Church.
“I told Father Angelo what my intentions were, and he was elated,” said Basile. “So, we painted, recarpeted, repaired the electricity, added restroom facilities, fixed the elevator, and installed prayer chapels.”
The tribute at the observatory honors a kind, generous woman, who was dedicated to her family and her church.
“My mom was a dedicated servant to the church and God,” Carlo said proudly. “The observatory offers beautiful views of the Boston skyline and the area, and if a person wants to engage in prayer there, they’ll be able to pray there. My brothers and I wanted to do something everlasting in memory of my mom’s name, and we took on this big project. You can see as far as Gloucester on a beautiful day.”
Basile said he was happy to complete the project for Father Angelo. “He cares so much about the church. He’s a godsend. Everyone is invited to an outdoor Mass this Saturday, June 20 at 7 p.m.”
Basile was inspired by his mentor, Tony Cannata, to enter public service. He was elected state representative for East Boston and served in that position for seven-and-a-half years. Impressed by Basile’s outstanding work in the state legislature, former Gov. Charlie Baker brought Basile on board in his administration as Chief Secretary.
Basile is currently a partner in the lobbying firm of Smith, Costello, and Crawford.