Jordan of Pisa

Jordan of Pisa (c. 1255 – 19 August 1311), also known as Giordano da Pisa and Giordano da Rivalto, was a prominent Dominican theologian and an influential preacher whose vernacular Italian sermons are the first of their kind to be preserved. His significant contributions to religious discourse and his innovative preaching methods left a lasting impression on public life and morality.

Life and Historical Context

Born in Pisa in the mid-thirteenth century, Jordan received his education in his hometown before pursuing theological studies in Paris in the late 1270s. He entered the Dominican order in 1280, joining the Dominican house in Paris. He later returned to Pisa, where he resided at the convent of Santa Caterina. During his time in Pisa, Jordan was instrumental in founding the Confraternity of the Holy Redeemer and several other similar lay organizations.

Jordan continued his academic pursuits at the University of Bologna and spent time in Paris again from 1285 to 1288 before returning once more to Pisa. He preached and taught in various cities, including Siena, Viterbo, and Perugia. His reputation grew, and he eventually moved to Florence, where he became a widely respected preacher. In 1305, he was appointed a lector at the church of Santa Maria Novella in Florence, a post he held for three years and significantly enhanced the church's esteem.

Jordan was recognized for his profound knowledge, particularly of liturgical texts and theological works, much of which he had memorized. He studied the efficacy of preaching for evangelization, adopting the then-emerging practice of preaching in the vernacular Italian. His Tuscan dialect was described as versatile and musical, though never overly elaborate. In Florence, he was known to preach up to five times a day, drawing large crowds who followed him and took notes of his sermons. These surviving notes attest to the impact and style of his preaching, which focused on sound Thomistic doctrine, Christian living, and perseverance.

In 1311, Jordan was appointed professor of theology at the friary of Saint James in Paris by the Master General Aymericus Giliani. However, he died at Piacenza on his journey to take up this new role.

Legacy and Veneration

Jordan of Pisa's cultus was officially confirmed on August 23, 1833, by Pope Gregory XVI, and he was beatified in 1838. His feast day is observed on either March 6 or August 19. His relics are venerated in the church of Santa Caterina in Pisa, Italy.

Major Contributions

Jordan of Pisa's primary contribution was his pioneering role in vernacular preaching. By delivering sermons in the common Italian tongue, he made theological teachings more accessible to the general populace, influencing public discourse and morality. His emphasis on solid doctrine and virtuous living through his extensive preaching had a tangible effect on Florentine society. He also founded religious confraternities, demonstrating his commitment to organizing and supporting lay piety.