Blessed Pope Urban V – Humble Reformer and Benedictine Shepherd

ST. URBAN V

Blessed Pope Urban V was a 14th-century Benedictine monk and pope who worked for Church reform, promoted education, and made efforts to return the papacy to Rome. He lived a life of simplicity and holiness.

Blessed Urban V was born in 1310 in southern France, and from a young age, he showed a deep love for learning and the monastic life. He entered the Benedictine order, where he embraced prayer, study, and service. As a monk and later an abbot, he gained a reputation for his wisdom, humility, and dedication to Church discipline.

In 1362, he was elected pope and took the name Urban V. At that time, the papacy had been based in Avignon, France, rather than Rome. Urban sought to restore the spiritual authority of the papacy and worked to return it to its rightful seat in Rome. Although political tensions eventually drew him back to Avignon, his desire to bring unity and dignity to the Church never wavered.

Urban V was a strong supporter of education and helped establish and fund universities across Europe. He encouraged the formation of clergy and scholars, believing deeply in the power of knowledge rooted in faith. He also supported missions to non-Christian lands and tried to mediate peace between warring nations.

Despite the challenges of leadership, Urban maintained the lifestyle of a monk. He lived simply, gave generously to the poor, and remained deeply prayerful. He died on December 19, 1370, in Avignon, and his remains were later transferred to Marseille, where he had spent part of his life.

He was beatified in 1870 for his virtue, vision, and commitment to Church renewal. His feast is celebrated on December 19. Blessed Urban V is remembered as a holy pope who balanced leadership with humility, reform with compassion, and intellect with deep faith.

Feast Day

19-12-1370

Birth Date

--1310

Died Date

19-12-1370

Canonised Date

10-3-1870

Marseille, France

O Blessed Urban V, Faithful shepherd and reformer, Guide us in humility and wisdom. May your dedication inspire us To serve with love and integrity. Amen.
ST. URBAN V

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ST. URBAN V

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