Saint Amato Ronconi – Life, Miracles, Feast Day & Canonization

ST. AMATO RONCONI

Saint Amato Ronconi, born around 1226 in Saludecio, Italy, was a lay Franciscan known for his humble service to the poor and his deep spirituality. After the death of his parents, he gave up his wealth, helped pilgrims, and founded a hospital. He undertook pilgrimages to places like Santiago de Compostela and was known for miracles during his life. He died on May 8, 1292. His body remains incorrupt and is housed in the Church of San Biagio. He was canonized by Pope Francis in 2014.

Saint Amato Ronconi was born around the year 1226 in the town of Saludecio in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Raised in a noble family, Amato chose a path that defied the expectations of his social standing. After the death of his parents, he declined a comfortable life in favor of a radical commitment to Christ through poverty, penance, and service to others. He became a lay member of the Secular Franciscan Order, which greatly influenced his spiritual development and dedication to the principles of humility, simplicity, and fraternity.

Amato Ronconi dedicated his inheritance to charitable causes, particularly in aiding pilgrims who passed through the region. His house became a refuge for travelers, and he later established the Santa Maria di Monte Orciale hospital. This institution not only provided medical care but also spiritual support, following the Christian call to see Christ in the face of every suffering person. Amato personally tended to the sick and the poor, embodying the Gospel in action.

Despite accusations from some family members who misunderstood or opposed his way of life—particularly from his brother Giacomo, who reportedly sought to portray him as mentally unstable—Amato’s faith never wavered. He continued his work with resilience and grace. His reputation as a holy man grew, attracting both admiration and scrutiny. Eventually, he withdrew from society to live as a hermit on Monte Formosino, where he could devote himself more completely to prayer and contemplation.

Saint Amato was also a pilgrim at heart. He made four pilgrimages to the shrine of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, a journey that, during his time, was both dangerous and arduous. His travels were marked by a spirit of penance and a longing for closeness to God. Along the way, he was credited with several miracles, including healing a man believed to be near death and causing a miraculous growth of turnips to feed hungry pilgrims. These stories spread, enhancing his renown as a man blessed by God.

One of the most remarkable accounts from his life was a vision he reportedly had in 1292, where an angel informed him that his death was near. In obedience to the divine message, Amato returned to Saludecio and passed away peacefully on May 8 of that year. His body was initially interred in the chapel of the hospital he had founded. However, after a fire destroyed the hospital in 1330, his remains were transferred to the Church of San Biagio in Saludecio, where they remain today.

His body was found to be incorrupt and exuded a pleasant fragrance—phenomena that, in Catholic tradition, are often associated with sanctity. Over the years, many people who visited his tomb reported miraculous healings and divine favors granted through his intercession. This led to a growing popular devotion, and in 1776, Pope Pius VI beatified him. His veneration continued to grow, especially in his native region, where he became a symbol of selfless Christian living.

In 2001, the Museo di Saludecio e del Beato Amato was established to preserve his legacy. The museum displays paintings, artifacts, liturgical items, and other devotional objects that reflect both the life of the saint and the broader religious culture of the area. Visitors to Saludecio can still witness the vibrant devotion to Saint Amato and view the relics and testimonies that span centuries.

On November 23, 2014, Pope Francis canonized Amato Ronconi, officially recognizing his sainthood in the universal Church. This event not only honored Amato’s personal holiness but also highlighted the timeless relevance of his life’s message—charity, humility, and fidelity to God amid trials. His canonization served as a beacon of hope and encouragement to laypeople everywhere who strive to live out their faith in the ordinary conditions of life.

Saint Amato Ronconi’s feast is celebrated each year on May 8, drawing pilgrims to Saludecio from various parts of Italy and beyond. His incorrupt body, displayed with reverence at the Church of San Biagio, continues to inspire awe and devotion. His story reminds the faithful that sanctity is not reserved for the ordained or the powerful but is possible for anyone who chooses love over comfort, faith over fear, and service over self.

Feast Day

8-5-

Birth Date

--1226

Died Date

8-5-1292

Canonised Date

23-11-2014

Church of San Biagio, Saludecio, Italy

St. Amato Ronconi, Faithful servant of God, Pray for us to live with humility and devotion. Help us to serve others with love And to follow Christ’s path of compassion and mercy. Amen.
ST. AMATO RONCONI

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ST. AMATO RONCONI

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