St. Francis of Paola

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Saint Details

St. Francis of Paola, born in Calabria, Italy, was the founder of the Order of the Minims. Known for his humility and devotion, he became famous for his miraculous abilities, including raising the dead. He guided King Louis XI of France on his deathbed and influenced the French court, promoting peace.

St. Francis of Paola, originally named Robert Martolella, was born in Calabria, Italy, to Giacomo d’Alessio and Viennada Fuscaldo. His parents, after years of childlessness, made a vow to dedicate their child to God if granted one. Their prayers were answered, and Robert was miraculously healed of an eye condition. At the age of 13, he joined a Franciscan monastery, where he took the name Francis and spent six years in solitary prayer in a coastal cave.

In 1435, Francis was joined by companions who lived with him as anchorites. Together, they established a small chapel and cells, forming what would later become the Order of the Minims. The order was founded on principles of humility, charity, and abstinence from all animal products. It grew so quickly that with the support of both nobles and commoners, a monastery and church were built. Francis became known not only for his miracles, including the ability to raise the dead, but also for his prophetic powers.

The Minims, under Francis’s leadership, lived a strict rule of charity and humility. Francis also established a Second Order for nuns and a Third Order for laypeople, expanding his influence throughout Europe. In 1482, King Louis XI of France sought Francis’s guidance on his deathbed. Francis prepared the king for a holy death and, after his passing, influenced the French court by promoting peace and preventing war.

In his later years, Francis lived in seclusion, continuing to pray and live in devotion. He died on Good Friday, 1507, at the age of 91. He was canonized in 1519, and in 1943, he was named the patron saint of seafarers. His incorrupt relics were revered by the faithful, even after they were burned during the Huguenot Reformation.

Feast Day

2-4-

Birth Date

27-3-1416

Died Date

2-4-1507

Canonised Date

--1519

N/A

O glorious St. Francis of Paola, humble servant of God, whose life was a beacon of faith, humility, and love, we ask for your intercession. You founded the Order of the Minims, living a life of simplicity and charity, dedicated to prayer and penance. Help us to imitate your love for God and your devotion to others. Grant us the grace to live with humility and to seek peace in all our endeavors. Protect us from the storms of life and guide us safely through troubled waters. We especially ask for your intercession as the patron saint of seafarers. Through your prayers, may we grow in holiness, and follow the example of your life. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
ST. FRANCIS OF PAOLA

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ST. FRANCIS OF PAOLA

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