Franciscan Friar – (1520-1583)
His life
+ Nicolás was born in Valencia, Spain, and was the son of a tailor. He entered the Franciscan Order in 1537.
+ A revered preacher, he traveled throughout the region of Valencia.
+ Nicolás was known for his austere penances and mystical experiences. His personal friends included Saint Paschal Baylon, Saint Louis Bertrand, and Saint Juan de Ribera, all of whom gave evidence for his beatification.
+ During the last years of his life, Nicolás left his community to join the more austere Capuchin Franciscans, a reform movement of the Franciscans begun in the early 16th century.
+ Saint Nicolás died in 1583 and was beatified in 1786.
Spiritual bonus
On this day the Church also celebrates Saint Thorlac Thorhallson. Born into a noble family Iceland, he studied in different parts of Europe before returning to Iceland to found an Augustinian abbey. He was later named bishop of Skalholt, helping reform and strengthen the Church in Iceland during a stormy time in its history. He died in 1193 and is honored as the patron of Iceland.
Quote
“Above all the grace and the gifts that Christ gives to his beloved is that of overcoming self.”—Saint Francis of Assisi
Prayer
We humbly ask you, almighty God,
that at the intercession of blessed Nicolás
you may multiply your gifts among us
and order our days in peace.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
(from The Roman Missal: Common of Pastors—For a Pastor)
Saint profiles prepared by Brother Silas Henderson, S.D.S.
And today we celebrate...