Benedict the Moor, born into slavery near Messina, Italy, in 1526, embarked on an extraordinary life journey that led him from bondage to sainthood. The son of African slaves, Benedict gained his freedom at 18 and initially took up farming, proudly owning a pair of oxen he acquired through his savings. His life took a turn towards spirituality as he chose solitude, eventually joining a community of hermits on Montepellegrino.
Despite his humble beginnings and lack of formal education, Benedict’s leadership qualities shone through, leading to his appointment as the superior of his hermit community. However, a decree from Pope Pius IV saw him transition into a Franciscan lay brother, where he humbly served as a cook at St. Mary’s convent near Palermo.
Benedict’s life took another unexpected turn when he was named the convent’s superior during a period of reform, a position he accepted reluctantly. Later, he served as a novice master, a role he requested to be relieved from to return to his preferred duty in the kitchen.
Despite his desire for a simple life, Benedict’s reputation for sanctity and miracles made him a sought-after figure, attracting countless visitors. His death at the convent marked the end of a life characterized by humility, devotion, and miraculous deeds. Canonized in 1807, Benedict the Moor is venerated as a patron saint of African-Americans, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. King Philip III of Spain, recognizing his sanctity, funded a special tomb for this revered friar.
Photo credit: Luis Fraga / Shutterstock.com
.){kind=link}
St. Benedict the African please pray for me.
I’m pretty sure his body was found to be incorrupt, St Benedict pray for all of us.
St. Benedict pray for us Ooh kind hearted saint
[…] uCatholic […]
Saint Bennidect, please pray for my family, my friends and all those suffering from various illness.c
Thank you – St BENEDICT the African intercede for all people , this shows that God has no favorite Amen as Jesus appeared to ”The boy who saw Jesus ‘ could not read or write but He sent him into the deepest of Africa to tell the people what HE (Jesus) wanted of them also to give them the message that ‘He is coming again soon’ Amen
Saint Benedict the Moor,pray for us!
St. Benedict the Moor, pray for us.
St. Benedict please pray for the intentions of the Blessed Mother ..
St.Benedict,,,,,already a Saint for the suffering ALL black peoples have had to endure!!!!!!!
This Black Man,,,,,,turned his enslavement,,,,,,,to being a most needed FATHER to his flock!!!!!!!!!
Our God does work in MYSTERIOUS WAYS,,,,,,,,,,,,
St.Benedict,,,,,,,,please PRAY for your BLACK CATHOLICS……ESPECIALLY!!!!!!!!
Dear St. Benedict the Moor, Please pray for us during this coronavirus time, and ask the sweet Lord to put an end to it. To bless all those who have died because of it, and to help the people who are still living to come through it. Amen.
St. Benedict the Moor please pray for me. Begging for removal of dark forces and evil spirits and shame. May The Good Lord grant me Mercy and Forgiveness.