BLESSEDS OF SERVITE FRIARS
JAMES DA VILLA / JOACHIM OF SIENA / ELIZABETH PICENARDI / BENINCASA / FRANCIS OF SIENA / JAMES PHILIP BERTONI / THOMAS OF ORVIETO UBALD OF BORGO SANSEPOLCRO / ANDREW OF BORGO SANSEPOLCRO / JOAN OF FLORENCE / BONAVENTURA OF FORLI' / JOHN ANGELO PORRO / JEROME OF SANT'ANGELO IN VADO / BONAVENTURA OF PISTOIA
Blessed James da Villa, Almsgiver
Blessed James was born in Citta' della Pieve, in central
Italy, about 1270. trained in law, he became a defender of the poor
and
oppressed. At his own expense he restored a church and hospice outside the gate
of Vecciano, where he cared for the poor and sick with great love.
When in 1304 James defended the rights of the poor he incurred the hatred of a powerful man who then had him killed. The townspeople gave him the title of "Almsgiver", and in 1806, Pope Pius VII approved his cult.
Defender of the poor and oppressed
James was born in Città della Pieve, central Italy, about 1270, son of Anthony da Villa and Mostiola. A devout young boy, he frequently attended services at the nearby Servite Church. There are indications that he studied both law and letters at Siena, gaining proficiency in both.
Even at that time he became
concerned about the poor and the sick; he spared no sacrifice in defense of
orphans, widows and the needy. Later, so as to fulfill better the commandment of
the Lord, he gave all his possessions to the poor and dedicated himself
completely to the care of the sick. As an example of his great love, the author
of an early life of Blessed James did not hesitate to apply to him what we find
in many other lives of the saints: during Mass one day James was struck by the
words of the Lord: If anyone comes to me without turning his back on his
father and mother, his wi/e and his children, his brothers and sisters, indeed
his very se/f, he cannot be my follower. In the same way, none of you can be my
disciple i/ he does not renounce
all his possessions. He felt that these words were addressed to him, and so
he left all and dedicated himself to the service of God and his neighbor. This
description, though a commonplace in the lives of the saints, nevertheless
testifies to his reputation for holiness.
He restored a church and hospice which had fallen into disrepair, and there he received the poor of the town. He fed them, treated their wounds, and cared for their needs. When a powerful man of Chiusi usurped the possessions of the hospice, James defended the rights of the poor at the Roman Curia and won his case. The usurper then invited James to come to Chiusi on the pretence of desiring to resolve their differences. This avaricious man then arranged to have assassins attack and kill James on his way back to Città della Pieve. Thus James, defender of the poor and oppressed, died in 1304, giving a witness of justice and love with his own blood.
Some letters, documents and old paintings of Blessed James seem to indicate that he was not only a Servite tertiary, but that he was also a member of the Pranciscan Third Order and an Oblate of the Hospice of Santa Maria della Scala in Siena. At that time it was not unusual for an individual to belong to several such groups.
In 1806 the Sacred Congregation of Rites approved the cult of Blessed James and in 1846 Pope Pius IX permitted the Servite Order to celebrate a Mass and Office in his honor.
Prayer
Father in heaven, your love inspired James to risk his life in defense of the rights of the poor and oppressed. Make us strong and courageous against opposition as we work for peace and justice, building a community of love. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.
February 3
Joachim was born about 1258 in Siena, Italy. At the age of thirteen he was received into the Servite Order by Saint Philip Benizi. He lived in the comunities of Siena and Arezzo and there he gave an admirable example of devotio to the Blessed Virgin Mary, humility and charity.
He loved others so much that when he was unable to console an epileptic with words he asked for and obtained from God that he might take the sickness upon himself. He died in 1305. In 1609 Pope Paul V permitted the Servite Order to celebrate Mass and Divine office in his honor.
From the Life of Blessed Joachim of Siena (Nn. 1-6, 17-19 passim; Monumenta OSM, V, pp. 7-9, 11-12)
I bear the sufferings of Christ in my body
Joachim was born in the city of Siena; both of his parents were of noble blood. While still a child at school, he cultivated a special devotion to the holy Mother of God. His devotion was so great that what ever he could secretly take from home he distributed in her name to those who asked him for her sake. From the very beginning this stripling of God revealed his goodness, a youth of perfect character that gave clear signs of his love for the honor of the glorious Virgin above all things; he appeared to all already a saint, and looking into the future they said, "If this child lives, he will be a great saint!"
When the devout boy reached the
age of fourteen, he saw the Blessed Virgin in a dream, surrounded by choirs of
angels and doted in a splendid robe. She said to him, "Sweetest son, come to me;
I know how much you love me, therefore I choose you for my service forever."
When the holy youth awoke, he was inspired by this vision of Our Lady and made
up his mind to enter the Order of Servants of Saint Mary the Virgin.
At that time the illustrious confessor Philip, who was general of the Order, was in the priory at Siena. Re was a brilliant light and a father of truly great holiness. Philip received him into the Order and asked by what name he wished to be called. The boy, burning with devotion to the Virgin, asked to be called Joachim. By bearing her father's name, he might always be dose to her in mind and body. In the world he had been called Chiaramonte.
Once in the Order, Joachim, the servant of God, gave himself completely to a life of great humility. In spite of his noble origins and youth, he preferred the humblest and most distasteful tasks. He comforted the suffering, served the sick, and with his own hands carried out with devotion those vile services which were repugnant to others.
He loved obedience especially and called it the food of the soul, in the words of the Savior: My food is to do the will 0/ my Father who is in heaven. Blessed Philip later sent him to the priory in Arezzo. When he had been there about a year, he and Fra Acquisto of Arezzo, a man of great fame, were passing through the countryside. It was night and rain was falling hard, so they took refuge in an inn. They found there a sick man who had been suffering for a long time. Blessed Joachim heard his lament with compassion and said to him, "Brother, have patience; this illness will be your salvation." But the sick man replied, "Good friar, it is easier to praise infirmity than to bear it." Joachim then said, "I beseech almighty God to free you from this illness and give it to me, his servant. May death alone release me from this infirmity. So shall 1 bear continually the suffering of Christ in my body." The sick man got up from his bed forthwith; he was completely healed. The friar remained in his place, a victim of epilepsy. This sickness afflicted him for the rest of his life and through it he won a crown of martyrdom.
It pleased the Most High to adorn him with yet another crown. Another illness struck him: the flesh was eaten away to the bone in some parts of his body and worms appeared. He hid it from the friars as long as he could, but when they learned of it they were very saddened. They entreated him to pray for himself, that he be freed from this affliction. He replied, "Beloved brothers, it is not fitting for me to do so, because this ailment is to purge my sins and strengthen my soul; as the Apostle said, When I am weak, then am I strong."
The Lord revealed to him that his death was near, and he begged God to call him on the same day the Savior left the world. On the eve of his departure from earth, the day of the Lord's Supper, he spoke to the assembled friars: "Beloved brothers, I have lived with you thirty-three years, the length of Our Lord's life on earth. 1 have received many services from you, I and you have assisted me in my every need. I am not capable of thanking you sufficiently for all you have done. May the Lord Jesus Christ thank you and repay you for what you for what you have done for me. Tomorrow 1 shall leave you, and I pray you to entreat the Lord to receive me, a sinner, into his dwelling.I desire to renew our fraternal love before departing." He then drank a little wine with them.
But on Good Friday, just before the Passion was sung, he sent for the prior and said to him, "Reverend Father, in a little while the Lord will call me from this earth. Call the friars to my bedside and give me the sacraments of the Church, even though 1 received the Sacred Body with all of you yesterday. 1 don't want to leave you while all alone." The prior was not entirely convinced, but he couldn't ignore his words either, so he left four friars with him. Joachim continued praying while the Passion of the Lord was being sung. At the words, "inclinato capite, emisit spiritum" (he bowed his head and yielded up his spirit), he raised his eyes and, while the four friars stood around, gave his spirit back to the Creator.
Prayer
God our Father, you taught Joachim, disciple of Jesus and Mary, to serve his brothers and sisters even by accepting their sickness. May we learn from his example to acknowledge our own weakness and so be compassionate and understanding of the weakness of others. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.
February 19
Elizabeth was born around 1428, probably in Cremona, Italy. From her childhood, however, she lived near the Servite Church of St. Barnabas in Mantua and there became asociated with the friars of our Order.
She received the Servite habit and was distinguished for her chastity as well as her love for the Eucharisty and the Mother of God. She died in 1468 and Pius VII approved devotion to her in 1804.
From the Life of Blessed Elizabeth Picenardi (In Moniales OSM, I, [1963] pp. 29-32)
Faithful messenger of the blessed Mother of God
Elizabeth was born in 1428 and from early childhood was brought up in Mantua. Her father was Leonard of Cremona. She was so devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary that she observed chastity perpetually in the virginal habit of the Servants, even though her father, then a steward of the Marquis Gonzaga, tried often to force her to marry into the nobility. While observing virginity her entire life, she went about from the first flower of her youth until she died clothed with a hair shirt next to her flesh, fastened with an iron belt four fingers in width. Daily she would recite the divine office following the rite of the Roman Curia and often she was nourished by holy communion from the hands of Fra Barnabas of Mantua who would daily hear her confession. She would be, as it were, dissolved in tears while receiving these sacraments. Her body was afflicted with many infirmities especially after the death of her father, when she went to live with her sister Orsina, also known as Orsolina, the wife of the nobleman Bartholomew of Gorno. She lived there until the end of her life in her own small room not far from the church of Saint Barnabas of the Order of Servants in the quarter of the city called Cigno.
Those living in the area would run to her for advice almost as to an oracle, for they regarded her in some way as a most successful intercessor with the blessed Mother of God. She was endowed with the gift of prophecy and she predicted the day and hour of her own death. When her death approached, although grievously afflicted with colic, for nine days she gave thanks unceasingly to God and the Blessed Virgin because she would die with the flower of virginity unharmed and because she had never sought anything from the Mother of grace without her prayers being answered.
At the moment of her death, however, she seemed to be listening intently, as if she heard a divine melody. Nor could even her pain hinder her from rejoicing with happy countenance and serene face; she seemed, in fact, to be watching intently, as if she saw Jesus Christ our Lord and his holy Mother standing beside her. She died on Friday, 19 February 1468. As she had steadfastly borne her pain with the crucified Christ, so it was on Friday together with him that she died.
Prayer
Lord God, while on earth Elizabeth was highly favored by Mary, Mother of your Son, Jesus. Now, in heaven, may she help us to be faithful in your service and secure in your love. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.
May 11
Benincasa was born around 1375, probably in Montepulciano, Italy. He entered the Servite Order as a youth and lived a life of solitude and penance.
He died about 1426 and his body is at present venerated in the parish church of St. Leonard in Monticchiello.
Pope Pius VIII approved devotion to him in 1829.
To taste the Lord he withdrew into solitude
Benincasa was born around the year 1375, most probably in Montepulciano, Italy. As an adolescent he took the Servite habit, and at the age of twenty-five he withdrew to a grotto on Monte Amiata near Siena, very dose to where Saint Philip is said to have spent some time in penance.
Benincasa is among those men whom the Spirit has frequently raised up within the Order-men called to more intense contemplation in solitude and silence. While living the life of hermits, they maintained the bond of fraternity with the Order.
Fra Michele Poccianti, a sixteenth century writer, described the life of Blessed Benincasa in these words: "When he was tempted by the spirit of impurity, he used to pray to God, not to remove the trial but to grant him strength. When he was ill, he would not permit anybody to come to him, saying, 'I am being burned to take away my sin.' When visitors offered him alms, he did not want to accept them; but, satisfied with a bit of bread and a little water, he used to say, 'Our enemy is most easily overcome by those who own nothing.' In actual fact, he used to give guts made with his own hands to those who provided him with the necessities of life." Contrary to his usual prolix style, Poccianti describes here quite simply the life of a man who lived in seclusion, dedicated himself to
prayer and penance, and earned what little he needed through his own labor.
Benincasa died in 1426 at the age of fifty. His body was placed in the church of St. Martin in Monticchiello, a town not far from the grotto where he had lived. As a sign of their gratitude, the people built a priory for the Servites near the church. After some difficulties, the remains of the Blessed were taken to the parish church of St. Leonard where they are still venerated. Pope Pius VIII approved devotion to Blessed Benincasa in 1829.
Prayer
Lord God, through the example of your Son, you called Blessed Benincasa to a life of solitude, prayer and penance. May his holy life ispire us to follow your Son in freedom of spirit. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.
May 12
Francis was born in Siena in 1266. Because of his love for the Blessed Virgin he
entere the Order of Servants of Mary when he was twenty-two years old, and
shortly after was ordained to the priesthood.
He was noted for his charity, his preaching, and his good judgment in counselling those who came to him. He died in 1328 and his body is venerated in the Basilica of St. Mary of the Servants in Siena. Benedict XIV approved devotion to him in 1743.
From the Life of Blessed Francis of Siena by Fra Christopher of Parma (n. 6-9 14. 30: Monumenta OSM, V, pp. 24-25. 28.34)
He chose the glorious Virgin as his Mother and sole Lady
Francis chose the glorious Virgin as his special mother and Lady; he so revered her in his mind and heart that he never called her anything but Lady. He would genuflect before her image five hundred times a day. He recited the Hail! Mary and other praises of the' glorious Virgin and prayed that the lily of his own virginity would never be uprooted. He fervently sought humility of heart, patience in adversity and strength to overcome the temptations of the devil. He made his flesh serve his spirit and, with plaintive cries, dashed the passions that allured him against the rock which is Christ and the glorious Virgin, his Lady. He washed away with tears and sighs those venial sins that sometimes crept into his mind. He wore a hair shirt and used the discipline.
When his mother died, he was free of worldly obligations and thought to carry out the plan in his heart. He would have retired to solitary life in service of the Creator and the glorious Virgin, his Lady, but they had determined otherwise. He had frequently pondered in his heart the words: "Flee worldly company," and the Holy Spirit gave him to understand that it was imitation of the vices of others, not contact with them, that was sinfuI. On the contrary, contact with people could be more meritorious if by his words and the example of his life he could save them from the wiles of the devil. Those who walked as wild beasts in the dangerous paths of the world, lost in vice through the devil's deceit, he would lead to the path of holiness.
Francis, the servant of God, like the prophets, understood that the Lord was speaking within him. Following this inspiration, he decided to enter religious life immediately. There, under obedience, with nothing of his own, he could imitate the poor Christ and the glorious Virgin. In the flower of his virginity and purity, his service to the Virgin Mother and her Son would be more pleasing. At the age of twenty-two Francis, already a servant of the Virgin, entered the
Order of her Servants.
The outcome was to show how happy was his choice. Among his brothers in community there are many who bear witness to his perfection which found favor with the Lord of all virtue.
The servant of God rejoiced when he realized that Divine Grace shone forth in him. He became more fervent in serving God; he was the exclusive possession of the glorious Virgin; day and night he meditated on the law of the Lord and on how to improve in virtue. Never, except when seriously ill, would he lie down on a soft bed; even when half-dead he reclined on boards or on the ground, placing a small cushion under his head. When sleep overcame him, day or night, he would rise immediately and run to the oratory he had erected in his cell with an image of the glorious Virgin. Over and above the required "Hours," he continually and devoutly repeated the Hai! Mary and other praises of the Blessed Virgin.
After celebrating Mass (on Ascension Day, 1328), he was completely exhausted and could barely stand up. Nonetheless he had to go to preach in a town called Prisciano near Siena. He knelt before the prior and asked his blessing and the absolution of all his sins. He asked the prior to place the walking stick in his hand. The prior refused this act of profound reverence, for he knew not what had happened, and was unaware of the Lord's secret. Francis said, "Father, I do not know when I will ever again be able to ask your blessing." With his remaining strength he set out, sustained by the walking stick and a friar who accompanied him. When the servant of God had gone a stone's throw from the city gate, his strength abandoned him and he fell to his knees and said, “I love you, O Lord my strength, O God my firmaments, my refuge and my liberator”. Since the Hail Mary was always on his lips he added: “Hail Mary, full of grace the Lord is with you.” Then with the help of his companion, he tried to continue, obedient eve unto death.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, instill in us the gifts of piety and gentleness like those of your servant, Francis. These qualities of heart made him remarkable in his devotion to the Mother of Jesus and gave him the ability to lead others to holiness. We ask through our Lord Jesus Christ.
May 30
James Philip was born in 1454 in Celle di Monte Chiaro in the diocese of Faenza,
Italy. Because of a vow of his
parents, he was associated with the Order at the
age of nine.
He was note for his spirit of prayer and penance as well as his love for the Scriptures and the works of the Fathers of the Church.
Ordained a priest, his celebration of the sacraments demostrated his deep spirituality and love for the liturgy. He died in 1483.
His body rests in the cathedral of Faenza. Clemente XIII approved devotion to him in 1761.
From the Life of Blessed James Philip of Faenza by Nicolò Borghese (Nn. 1-6.8: Monumenta OSM, IV, pp. 64-66)
He studied the gospel traditions and sacred writings with the greatest zeal
James Philip was born of virtuous parents of modest means. His father's name was Miserino dalla Cella, his mother's Domenica. Before embracing religious life, he was called Andrew. When he was struck by epilepsy at two years of age, his father prayed for a cure, making a vow to offer him to the Lord in religious life if he were healed. Already from earliest childhood Andrew visited churches on his own; he did not amuse himself with the usual sports and games of children. He was very timid and reserved by nature and loved solitude.
When he was about nine years old, his father-in order to fulfill his vow - sent him to the Order of Servants of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Born again in spirit and with a new name, afterwards he was called James Philip. Even though he was just a child, from the outset he distinguished himself by his obedience and singular observance of the rules; as an adult he frequently was given to fasting and keeping vigils. With zeal he studied the gospel teachings and Sacred Scripture. And he seemed to draw nourishment for long periods when he read the lives of the Fathers and the examples of chastity, obedience and humility of the saints. As a young man, he dedicated himself so completely to literary studies that he was able to understand easily and exactly the books of Christian and other excellent Latin authors. He was well versed in the ceremonial rituals of the Church and his Order and the rubrics of the divine office and he performed them all with precision.
He
filled some offices in the community to the full satisfaction of his confreres.
He was, in fact, affable, gentle and obliging by nature. He was never seen to
sulk or be angry. With evenness of spirit he bore any offenses inflicted on him
by others but he never offended anyone. He was at all times a man of few words,
avoiding not only indecent ones but useless ones as well; if he happened to hear
anything obscene in any conversation, his countenance would cloud immediately
and he would admonish the wrongdoers with a brief reproof and leave them.
After ordination to the priesthood, no one was more devout or more reverent in celebrating with copious tears the sacrifice of the Mass; no one contemplated more deeply the mystery of the Cross when he held the Host in his hands. He hated idleness and called it the cesspool of all evils. He always took part in singing and celebrating the divine offices in choir with the other friars. The rest of the time he spent in his room in prayer and reading; sometimes, however, he eased the burden of his mind by weaving or designing inlaid veneer so that he was never unoccupied. He was accustomed for the most part to walk and meditate alone; he did so with eyes lowered. He read with great delight the works of Saint Jerome and other sacred books, but especially he took up often a volume about the passing, that is, the death of Saint Jerome. By this time, he was meditating only on heavenly things. He sustained himself more with heavenly virtue than with material food, so that he was eating only once a day and was content with a small ration of poor quality food. When called to task for this by his superior, he ate what was prepared for the community. On Fridays, however, in memory of the Passion of the Lord he dressed in a hairshirt and ate only herbs.
He seemed to tolerate nothing with more reluctance than words of praise in his own regard. In our age it seems extraordinary that he would hide as much as he could his good works and excellent qualities. Although he was esteemed as good and upright by everyone, he was appreciated less by them than by God. Following the example of the Savior, he wanted, in fact, to be rejected and despised by others; and in the depths of his heart he desired nothing more ardently than to please God his creator and follow the path of our Redeemer.
As the final days of his life approached, bad healthtook hold of him and this he manifested more by his appearance than by his words. T o those who asked him how he felt, he replied, "Well, because the Lord wills it." There was neither impatience nor regret in him in meeting suffering or death. Although he was ill, he did not take to his bed but moved around freely. The day before he died, he was present in church to sing Matins with the other friars and the day before that he celebrated Mass. The evening before his death he visited his confreres one by one; humbly he asked their forgiveness and begged that they might pray to God for his soul in their prayers the following day because, he said, he believed himself about to depart from the bonds of the body. The holy man was in the twenty-ninth year of his life when he returned a victor to the heavenly homeland. It was Sunday, 25 May, the feast of the Most Holy Trinity.
So thin was James Philip's tall figure that the skin seemed to cling to his bones; the nose jutted out from his long face; the eyes were sunken, the neck elongated, the fingers like claws and he was of remarkably pale complexion.
Prayer
Father in heave, you richly endowed James Philip with a knowledge of divine truth and a heart on fire with love whenever he celebrated the Eucharist. Draw us to yourself, source of our wisdom and font of generous love. We ask through our Lord Jesus Christ.
June 27
Thomas was born in the city of Orvieto. He was prompted to enter the Order of Servants of Mary both by his desire for heaven and his devotion to our Lady.
As a member of the Order, his with to be the servant of all led him to take his place among the brothers. Each day as he went about seeking alms, he gave an outstanding example of charity, humility an powerful intercession with God. He died in 1343.
In 1768, Pope Clement XIII confirmed the devotion to him.
Humble in begging, happy in giving
Blessed Thomas was born in Orvieto in Umbria toward the end of the thirteenth or the beginning of the fourteenth century. Ali his desires and thoughts were concentrated on the journey to heaven and for this reason he decided to dedicate himself completely to God in a religious community. Because of his special devotion to Mary, he chose to enter the Order of Servants of Mary.
The virtues most typical of the Servants were resplendent in him: humility, brotherly love, and a spirit of compassion and service. Indeed, we read in the Annals of the Order that to serve both the Virgin and her Servants more constantly, he requested to be received among the lay brothers.
For many years he went from door to door seeking alms, showing in his work much gentleness, patience and love.
He loved the poor so much that he joyously gave them not only the extra food which had been offered to the friars' table but also his own portion. Some early writers testify that God rewarded his humble simplicity by working miracles through his intercession. Artistic representations of Blessed Thomas, some of which are truly noteworthy because of their antiquity and artistic value, picture him carrying a knapsack with a fig branch in his hand, offering, in the middle of winter, a bunch of figs to a pregnant woman who had desired them. It seems that the artists wanted to depict both the solicitude of this man of God toward those who had recourse to him as well as the power of his intercession with God which was expressed in miracles.
This humble servant of the Virgin died in Orvieto in 1343 as we read in the work of Fra Michele Poccianti. His body is honored in the church of the Servants in Orvieto. Because of the many miracles attributed to him, the citizens of that city soon began to venerate him with great devotion. This devotion was confirmed by Pope Clement XIII in 1768.
Prayer
God, our Father, graciously you listen to the person who is humble. Grant that with the help of Thomas we may obtain happiness now and always. We ask through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed Ubald of Borgo Sansepolcro
July 4
Ubald was born at Borgo Sansepolcro around the middle of the
thirteenth century. He entered the Order of
Servants an was ordained a priest.
As a Servite friar he was noted for the holiness of his life and works. He was a close friend of Saint Philip.
It is said that when Philip was dying Ubald came to his friend`s bedside Philip regained consciousness for a moment and then died in Ubald`s arms.
Ubald died at Monte Senario in 1351. Pope Pius VII approved the devotion to him in 1821.
He left us an example of a holy life
Ubald was born at Borgo Sansepolcro, in Tuscany, toward the middle of the thirteenth century. Fra Paolo Attavanti telIs us that his attraction to religious life dated from his early years. When he completed his study of philosophy and letters, he joined the Order of Friar Servants of Mary. Then he studied theology.
Brother Ubald was a' tall, good-looking man. He was respected as 'a fine example of chastity. He was a man of work and initiative who made no compromises with life's comforts. His friendship with Saint Philip highlights another dimension of his personality and confirms the accounts of his holiness. Fra Taddeo Adimari and Nicolò Borghese both repeat an earlier life of Saint Philip which describes his death at Todi. Ubald had miraculously learned that his friend was dying and arrived at Todi when Philip had been unconscious for three hours. Philip awoke, embraced his friend and brother, then died.
We do not know in which monastery Ubald lived for most of his religious life. It is thought that he passed the last years of his life at Monte Senario, where he died in 1315. He was welI known there because of the many miracles attributed to him. Fra Michele Poccianti states that his body was buried in the church of Monte Senario.
In 1707 the remains of a talI man were found under the main altar near the tomb of the Seven Holy Fathers. It is generalIy believed that these are the remains of Ubald.
In 1821, Pope Pius VII confirmed the devotion to Blessed Ubald. In 1969 the remains of Blessed Ubald were transferred to the chapel of Saint Joseph where they are still venerate.
Prayer
Lord, our God, source of all love, help us by the prayers and example of Blessed Ubald. Fill us with your gifts so that we may glorify you in total love. We ask though our Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed Andrew of Borgo San Sepolcro
August 31
Andrew was inspired by a sermon of St. Philip Benizi and so asked to receive the habit of the Servants of St. Mary in 1278 in the house of the Order in the city of Borgo Sansepolcro.
He withdrew immediately
to a hermitage near Borgo to live a life of penance and solitude.
Both by his counsel and his works, he drew many others hermits to the Order of Servants.
He went out into a desert place
From documents of the Order we learn that Blessed Andrew, known as Brother Andrew of the Hermitage, lived for some time in the community of Borgo Sansepolcro early in the fourteenth century. Regarding his entrance into the Order, Fra Michele Poccianti tells us that in the year 1278 when a general chapter of the Order was being held in Borgo Sansepolcro, our holy father Philip delivered a homily on the gospel text where the Lord said, None o/ you can be my disciple unless he give up all his possessions. Andrew, a hand some and wealthy young man who was present at the homily, was so deeply moved by the words of the man of God, that immediately, led by the Spirit, he left his parents and alI his earthly goods in the name of the Lord and shortly after, asked for the habit of the Servants. This young man was called Andrew like that other Andrew who left his nets and his boat and followed Christ.
In the community at Borgo, Andrew proved himself to be an exceptional servant of the Virgin and a perfect disciple of Saint Philip. He always showed a spiritual sensitivity toward the things of this world which he loved in God and through God. Although poor and harsh on himself, he showed himself to be rich and conwassionate toward alI. Meek and humble and peace-loving, it was evident that he had conquered his anger and subdued hatred. He never indulged in idleness or foolish talk.
In his desire for penance and solitude, he frequently went into the privacy of a cell at Cella Vallucola near Borgo, especially since this hermitage was attached to the community of the Servants at Borgo by the bishop of Città di Castello in the year 1295. Andrew was appointed vicar of the hermitage and soon won over the solitaries living there and became their father and leader. We read this in Fra Michele Poccianti's account and he was almost certainly using older sources.
Blessed Andrew, by his holiness of life and fiery eloquence gained many disciples, among whom was Blessed Bartholomew of Borgo. Among the many gifts of his apostolate, prudence and spiritual counseling shone forth in such a way that through him communities in the cities of Alessandria and Asti joined with the Order of Servants.
He was informed of the time of his death by a divine inspiration and thus returned his soul to God while at prayer in his celI in the year 1315. All mourned him as children for their father, pupils for their teacher, as sick deprived of their doctor.
His body was carried to the Church of the Servants in Borgo Sansepolcro amid weeping people and a large crowd of the faithful. The devotion which had been shown him from time immemorial was approved by Pope Pius VII in the year 1806.
Blessed Andrew was their moderator. He died in 1315 while he was at prayer. Pope Pius VII in 1806 confirmed the veneration which had been paid to him.
Prayer
O God, through Andrew you called many hermits to the community of Servants, making them one in their service of Mary and love for each other. Grant that, as humble servants of Mary, we may be one in heart and action. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
September 1
Joan was born in Florence. She lived during the first century of the Order.
When she received the habit of the Third Order of the Servants, she pledged herself to the Virgin Mary. She lived a life of chastity and penance.
Several ancient images represent Joan as one of the more distinguished blessed of the Order. Pope Leo XII confirmed the devotion to her in 1828.
Prayer
O God, by your grace and the austerity of her life, Joan remained faithful to her consecrated love for Jesus. Grant that we by her prayer and example, may experience conversion of heart so that we may love and serve you above all things. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.
September 6
Bonaventure was born at Forli about 1410. He entered the Order of Servants and became a Master of Theology.
In his preaching he was note for his courage and his wisdom. He held many positions within the Order and was known for his prudence.
He lived a life of penance, loved solitude and fostered the regular observance. He died at Udine in 1491.
Pope Pius X approved the devotion to Bonaventure in 1911.
Mighty in word, exemplary in deed
Bonaventure of Forlì was born about 1410 and entered the Order of Servants of Mary in his native city. In 1448 he was sent to Venice where for six years he diligently pursued studies in sacred doctrine and received the degree of master of theology. In the priory at Venice he probably lived with Blessed Bartholomew, a man of exceeding holiness who was known for his love of the solitary life and his distinguished work of preaching the gospel.
Bonaventure zealously performed the ministry of proclamation of God's word. Indeed, many documents attest to his numerous and popular sermons especially during Lent in places such as Venice, Florence, Bologna, Brescia and Perugia. It is almost as if he were trying to emulate the apostle Paul.
Fra
Filippo Albrizzi fittingly wrote of Bonaventure that "he was mighty in word and
both admirable and venerable in example and deed." His sermons in the
plague-ridden city of Perugia merit special mention. There he èonvinced the
people not only to implore God's help by means of prayer and penance, but also
to take an active part in the care of the poor and the sick. The fame of [his
man of God was so widespread that Pope Sixtus IV named him Preacher Apostolic
with the faculty to preach everywhere.
Bonaventure performed many tasks in the Servite Order. He is credited with the foundations in Piobbico in the region of Urbino and in Forlimpopoli in the district of Romagna. When he lived in Rome he was elected prior of San Marcello. It also seems he was procurator general in charge of handling affairs of the Order with the Apostolic See. In time Bonaventure desired to devote himself more fully to a life of penance and contemplation, so he petitioned Pope Sixtus IV for permission to observe the eremitical life. The pope acted favorably on his request and in 1483 permitted him and six companions to withdraw to a solitary place. It is not known where Bonaventure went, but several seventeenth century documents suggest that he may have spent some time on Monte Senario. In any case he was not there long but returned to community life out of either love or obedience. He then became prior provincial of the Province of Romagna, fostering religious discipline.
When the prior general, Antonio Alabanti, sought to return the Order to a stricter discipline, he made use of Bonaventure's advice and assistance. A serious dispute had arisen between the prior general and the friars of the Observance in 1487, and Bonaventure was entrusted with the task of settling the disturbance and restoring peace. The following year he was elected vicar general at the chapter of the Congregation of the Observance and was later confirmed in this office by the general chapter of the Order.
Several Servite writers were familiar with Bonaventure and they point to his love for penitential acts and solitude. Fra Filippo Albrizzi wrote of Bonaventure: "He was short of stature and slight of frame, but there was no mediocrity in his learning. He was a priest of great holiness. His beard was unkempt; his feet were bare, suffering the heat of summer and the freezing cold of winter. He never wore shoes and his feet were often seen to be bleeding. He despised vanity in dress; he never ate meat or drank wine; he slept on the bare floor or on a bed of wooden planks. In short, he did whatever seemed necessary to subdue the flesh. Even while living he obtained many miracles from God as a result of his prayers." Much the same was said of him in the poetic writings of Fra Gasparino Borro.
In 1491, after delivering the Lenten sermons in the cathedral of Udine, Bonaventure collapsed, consumed by old age and broken by the austerity of his life and labors. He died on Holy Thursday, the feast of the Lord's Supper.
His body was at first placed in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Udine. When Andrea Loredan, who was the legate of the Venetian Republic to Udine became gravely ill, he sought the intercession of Blessed Bonaventure and was fully restored to health. In 1509 he returned to his native region and, in thanksgiving for his cure, he had Bonaventure's body transferred to Venice and placed in the Church of Saint Mary of the Servants.
In 1911 the Sacred Congregation of Rites ratified the devotion to Blessed Bonaventure. After much effort his remains were. returned in 1971 to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie.
Prayer
Touch our hearts, O Lord, with the same spirit of conversion with which you touched your servant Blessed Bonaventure and made him both a herald of your gospel and an example of penance. We ask through our Lord Jesus Christ.
October 25
John Angelo Porro was born in the Duchy of Milan in the year
1451. After her had received the habit in the Order of Servants of Mary, he
lived for a time in the priory of St Mary, Milan, and later was sent to the
priory in Florence.
Later still, he withdrew to Monte Senario so that he might give his whole life to penance and contemplation.
After living at Monte Senario for almost twenty years he returned to Milan where he engaged in the careful preparation of young children in Christian doctrine.
He died in 1505. Pope Clement XII entered the name of John Angelo in the catalog of the blessed in 1737.
The model of a life rooted in the contemplation and knowledge of God
John Angelo was born in 1451 in the Duchy of Milan of Protasio Porro and Franceschina de Guanzate, good Christians from Barlassina near Seveso.
In 1468 he received the habit of the Servants and lived for five years in the Priory of Saint Mary in Milan. According to some of the Order' s writers, he then retired to the solitude of Cavacurta on the / right bank of the River Adda to lead a life of contempladon and penance.
In 1474 John Angelo was sent to the Annunziata in Florence where he was noted for his regular observance. During this period he completed his studies and was ordained to the priesthood. He continued to consider the possibility of a hermit's life and eventually went to Monte Senario which had been restored at the beginning of the fifteenth century by a group of friars who had desired the solitary life.
Blessed John Angelo's stay on
Monte Senario was of such particular importance in his life and spiritual
development, he even came to be known as "John of the Mountain." Whenever he
had to leave Senario far reasons of health or obedience he would always return
to its solitude with great personal joy.
In 1484 Antonio Alabanti, the prior of the Annunziata, called John Angelo to Florence to instruct the novices for whom he seems to have written some "useful instructions."
Three years later, Alabanti, who was now prior general, named John Angelo rector of the hermitage of Monte Senario, a position which he filled with responsibility, competence and holy wisdom. The prior general greatly esteemed his prudence and religious spirit and often sought his help in directing the hermitage in Chianti as well.
After Alabanti's death, John Angelo returned to Milan about 1495 and it seems that he was elected prior. Even in the center of that famous city he managed to preserve something of the solitary life which he so loved. His biographer Fra Filippo Ferrari tells us that "he lived in a room a little removed from the others." It was during this period that another important aspect of John Angelo's apostolate developed: the education of children in Christian doctrine. Ippolito Porro writes that "even though he was prior, every feast day he would stand at the church doors or wander through the streets attracting the children to himself that he might teach them Christian doctrine. Corroboration for this comes from the marble bas-relief of the mid-sixteenth century which shows the Blessed in church teaching children.
John Angelo died on 23 October 1505, in the priory of Milan and was mourned by both friars and laity.
In Blessed John Angelo we see the image and model of a life centered on contemplation and the knowledge of God which has found a way to express itself throughout the Order's history. John Angelo had a special love for prayer and silence. He sought an ever deepening intimacy with God in prayer and was, therefore, drawn to solitude and away from associations which "1crely wasted time. Not infrequently, though, his fraternal charity won out over his love for solitude. He loved the Order and was always concerned for its individual members. Though somewhat frail physically, he gained control over his body through constant renunciation. Poverty and simplicity of life were especially important for him. He had great reverence for Our Lady and composed a prayer in her honor which he recited daily.
In 1737 Clement XII proc1aimed John Angelo blessed. His almost incorrupt body is venerated in Milan in the Church of San Carlo, formerly known as the Church of Saint Mary of the Servants. Following a very old custom, sick children are stili brought to his tomb to ask his intercession for their cure.
Prayer
O Lord, John Angelo was faithful in his religious life and zealous in teaching Christian doctrine. May he pray for us, that we may always be close to you, observe the counsels of the gospel, and be fervent in apostolic work. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed Jerome of Sant`Angelo in Vado
December 10
Blessed Jerome was born in Sant`Angelo in Vado, Italy, at the beginning of the fifteenth century. While still a youth, he entered the Servite monastery in his native town, and after completing his studies he returned there as a priest.
Jerome is best known for his love of silence and solitude, his spirit of prayer, and his ability as a spiritual director. He died about 1468 and his cult was approved by Pius VI in 1775.
In the hearts of those who discern, wisdom makes her home
Jerome was born at the beginning of the fifteenth century in Sant'Angelo in Vado, ltaly. His deeply Christian parents reared him in the fear of God. As a young man he received the habit of the Servants of Mary in the Servite monastery of his native town. After earning a degree in sacred theology, he was ordained a priest and returned to Sant'Angelo. There he adopted a rigorous life and dedicated himself to penitential practices and prayer, tempering silence and solitude with the duties of community life and works of charity.
While at Sant'Angelo, he held the office of vicar of the Roman Province. About 1450 he helped build the cloistered convent of Saint Mary of Grace for our Servite nuns, including Blessed Victoria, who was also from Sant'Angelo. Jerome was mindful of the needs of the people and was known as a spiritual director. Frederick, Duke of Urbino, held him in great esteem and relied on his advice in important matters, but Jerome wished to dedicate himself only to the Lord and so refused the honors and life of the ducal court.
Jerome died about 1468 and at once people began to come to his grave to seek liis intercession. Soon after, as the stories of miracles spread, the people acclaimed him a saint His incorrupt body is preserved under the main altar of the former Servite church in Sant'Angelo in Vado, and even today the faithful continue to venerate it. Pius VI confirmed his cult in 1775.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, you wondrously endowed Jerome with the gifts of your Spirit. Grant, through his intercession, that, filled with the wisdom of Christ, we may be prudent in all we do. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Blessed Bonaventure of Pistoia
December 15
Bonaventura was born in Pistoia, Italy, about 1250. Inspired
to lead a holy life by the
example of St. Philip, he entered the Servite Order
and was ordained a priest.
As prior he showed great understanding and wisdom in directing the affair of the monastery. While he was prior of the monastery of Montepulciano he received the profession of St. Agnes, a young woman of that town, and helped her found a convent for cloistered Dominican nuns.
He died at Orvieto about 1315 and his cult was officially confirmed by Pius VII in 1822.
He did and said only those things he thought pleasing to God and use/ul to others
Blessed Bonaventure was born in Pistoia, Italy, about the middle of the thirteenth century. Tradition relates his entrance into the Servite friars in this way: While the general chapter of the Order was being celebrated at Pistoia in 1276, our holy father Philip, the prior general, exhorted the citizens of that town, torn by internal strife and factions, to be reconciled to God and to one another. This young Ghibelline leader turned from his former ways to a life of penance at the words of the saint and asked Saint Philip to receive him into the Order. At his own request he was given the name Bonaventure. Michele Poccianti in his work Chronicon rerum Ordinis Servorum beatae Mariae Virginis (1567) describes his conversion in these words:
"Many were reconciled to the
Lord by the words of Saint Philip; they left their homes and gave their
possessions to the poor, choosing Philip as a father. They made their decision
to serve the Virgin in poverty under the leadership of Philip. Among them was a
certain Ghibelline leader who went to Philip right after he had finished
speaking. Re humbly
asked to be received into the Order of Servants and to begin, with the help of
God, a life of penance. The saint accepted this violent and vengeful man's
request, but he first ordered him to ask forgiveness of each of his enemies and
to return fourfold what he had stolen. To the admiration of all, Bonaventure
fulfilled this evangelical command willingly and was received into the Order of
Servants."
Although the author of the Chronicon does not indicate the sources of his information and usually embellishes the facts in the course of his narration, Servite writers, including those of more recent times, give credence to his words and they believe the " conversion of Bonaventure" approaches the truth.
Bonaventure remained a good friend of our holy father Philip, and when in 1285, Philip went to Pope Martin IV, then living at Perugia, to treat of problems relating to the survival of the Order and its approbation, he took as a companion Fra Bonaventure, whose wisdom and understanding he admired, along with Fra Lotharingus.
In the following years, Fra Bonaventure, because of bis foresight and wisdom, was made prior of the monastery in Bologna and then in Pistoia, and for several years was provincial of the Roman Province. The period when Bonaventure was prior of the monastery of Montepulciano is worthy of special mention. Men and women carne in great numbers to hear him preach and many entered the Order and received the habit from his hands. In 1306, at the order of Hildebrand, bishop of Arezzo, he laid the first stone of the church of Saint Mary built by Saint Agnes of Montepulciano. Bonaventure directed the construction of the convent and then gave the veil to Saint Agnes and her six companions and received their profession according to the Rule of Saint Augustine. He confirmed her election as Abbess and helped her in this office with his advice.
Bonaventure died at Orvieto about 1315 and immediately accounts of miracles attributed to his intercession spread. Pius VII confirmed his cult in 1822.
In 1915, the sixth centenary of his death, his body was moved to Pistoia where it is venerated to this day in the Servite church.
Prayer
Almighty God, grace our hearts with the gift of wise counsel so manifest in the life of Bonaventure, who was a spiritual guide for your dedicated Servants. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ.