Saint Leonard of Port Maurice – Franciscan Missionary and Preacher

ST. LEONARD OF PORT MAURICE

Saint Leonard of Port Maurice was a Franciscan priest and missionary known for his powerful preaching and dedication to spreading devotion to the Stations of the Cross. He traveled extensively throughout Italy, converting countless souls and emphasizing repentance, prayer, and love for the Eucharist. A humble and tireless preacher, he promoted the practice of perpetual adoration and Marian devotion. He died in 1751 and was canonized in 1867 by Pope Pius IX.

Saint Leonard of Port Maurice was born on December 20, 1676, in Port Maurice, a small town near Genoa, Italy. His birth name was Paul Jerome Casanova. He was raised in a devout Catholic family and displayed an early inclination toward religious life. At the age of 13, he was sent to Rome to study with the Jesuits, where he excelled in his studies and felt a strong calling to serve God.

In 1697, he joined the Franciscan Order of the Reformati at St. Bonaventure Monastery in Rome, taking the name Leonard. He was ordained a priest in 1703. Shortly after, he suffered from severe health issues, which forced him to return to his hometown for recovery. After regaining his strength, he dedicated his life to missionary work, traveling throughout Italy to preach the Gospel.

Leonard became one of the greatest preachers of his time. He was known for his passionate sermons on penance, the Last Judgment, and the love of Christ. His ability to move large crowds to conversion was unparalleled. He emphasized devotion to the Holy Eucharist, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and the Virgin Mary. He also played a major role in promoting the Stations of the Cross, encouraging its installation in churches and public places across Italy.

Despite his exhausting schedule, Leonard maintained a life of intense prayer and fasting. He firmly believed that true conversion required both external works and deep personal transformation. His missionary efforts led to the founding of numerous confraternities dedicated to perpetual adoration and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. He also worked tirelessly to bring peace and unity among various Christian communities.

Pope Benedict XIV often sought his counsel, and in 1744, Leonard was appointed by the Pope to prepare for the Jubilee Year of 1750. He preached extensively in Rome, and under his guidance, the Stations of the Cross were erected in the Colosseum, a practice that continues to this day.

Leonard’s health eventually declined due to his rigorous missionary work and ascetic lifestyle. He died on November 26, 1751, at the Monastery of St. Bonaventure in Rome. His last words were prayers of gratitude to God. He was canonized by Pope Pius IX in 1867.

Saint Leonard of Port Maurice remains a model of missionary zeal, humility, and devotion. His writings and sermons continue to inspire those seeking a deeper spiritual life. He is especially venerated for his promotion of the Stations of the Cross, his love for the Eucharist, and his call to repentance.

Feast Day

26-11-

Birth Date

20-12-1676

Died Date

26-11-1751

Canonised Date

29-6-1867

Church of St. Bonaventure, Rome, Italy

Saint Leonard of Port Maurice, fervent servant of God, you dedicated your life to preaching the Gospel with zeal and love. Intercede for us that we may grow in faith and devotion, and help us to follow your example of humility and charity. Guide us on our journey towards holiness and eternal life, and obtain for us the grace to live each day in service to God. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
ST. LEONARD OF PORT MAURICE

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ST. LEONARD OF PORT MAURICE

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