Saint of the Day: St. Bernardine of Siena

Franciscan Priest (1380-1444)

His life

+ Bernardine was born near Siena, Italy. Orphaned while still a child, he was raised by an aunt. When a plague devastated the region in 1400, Bernardine and some friends took over the local hospital after the regular staff had all died.

+ In 1402, Bernardine became a Franciscan friar and was ordained a priest two years later. Throughout his life he was known for his love of poverty and his commitment to study.

+ In 1417, Bernardine began a ministry of preaching that took him throughout Italy. A gifted preacher, he is especially honored for his devotion to the Most Holy Name of Jesus. His writings also touch on all aspects of Christian teaching, as well as the special role of Mary in the Christian life.

+ Bernardine was invited to become a bishop on three separate occasions. He refused each time out of humility.

+ Saint Bernardine of Siena died May 20, 1444, and was canonized in 1450.

For prayer and reflection

“You are not rewarded according to your work or your time but according to the measure of your love.”—Saint Bernardine of Siena

Spiritual bonus

On May 20 we also remember Saint Protasius Chŏng Kuk-Bo. A married layman from Songdo (in modern-day South Korea), he abandoned his Christian faith during a time of persecution. Protasius eventually returned to the faith and was subsequently imprisoned and tortured before being martyred on May 20, 1839, in the prison of Podocheong in Seoul. He was canonized with other Korean martyrs in 1984.

Prayer

O God, who gave the Priest Saint Bernardine of Siena a great love for the holy Name of Jesus, grant through his merits and prayers, that we may ever be set aflame with the spirit of your love. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(From The Roman Missal)

Saint profiles prepared by Brother Silas Henderson, S.D.S.