St. Salvadore of Horta was a humble Franciscan lay brother known for miraculous healings and profound holiness, attracting thousands during his lifetime.
St. Salvadore of Horta was born in 1520 in the small Catalonian town of Santa Coloma de Farners, in the Kingdom of Aragon (modern-day Spain). Orphaned at a young age, he was raised in poverty and began working early in life to support himself. Though he was uneducated, he possessed deep spiritual wisdom and a natural humility that impressed all who knew him.
In 1541, Salvadore entered the Franciscan Order as a lay brother in the monastery of Barcelona. He never sought the priesthood but instead served in lowly positions such as cook, porter, and doorkeeper. Despite his humble role, he became widely known for his sanctity, charity, and above all, miraculous healings. His fame spread rapidly when many reported being cured after he prayed over them or simply spoke a word of blessing.
For over twenty years, Salvadore served in various friaries across Spain and later in Sardinia, performing daily tasks while quietly offering his life as a prayer. He never sought attention, yet throngs of people followed him wherever he was sent. Authorities in both the Church and government grew concerned about the commotion he caused but found no fault in his conduct. His obedience, silence, and piety remained constant even as his reputation for miracles grew.
Later in life, he was transferred to the friary in Cagliari, Sardinia, where he continued to heal and bless others. The sick and poor saw him as a true friend of God. He died on March 18, 1567, and was immediately venerated as a holy man. When his tomb was opened years later, his body was found incorrupt—a sign often associated with sanctity.
Salvadore was beatified in 1606 by Pope Paul V and canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1938. Though not well known outside of Spain and Sardinia, his example of humility, compassion, and powerful intercession continues to inspire the faithful.