Jordan of Saxony

Jordan of Saxony, born around 1190 and known in Latin as Jordanis or de Alamania, was a German Catholic priest and a significant early figure in the Dominican Order. He belonged to the noble Counts of Eberstein family and pursued his education at the University of Paris. It was there that he encountered Saint Dominic and was inspired by Reginald of Orleans to join the Dominican Order, receiving the habit on Ash Wednesday in 1220.

Life and Historical Context

Jordan's early academic career included being a Master of Arts and a grammarian, teaching in Parisian schools. His life took a pivotal turn in 1222 when he was elected Master General of the Order of Preachers, succeeding Saint Dominic. Like his predecessor, Jordan was known for his strict adherence to the Rule, tempered with a profound kindness. During his leadership, the Dominican Order experienced substantial growth, increasing to over 300 priories and adding four new provinces.

Major Contributions

Jordan of Saxony is particularly celebrated for his ability to attract new members to the Order. Through his eloquent lectures in university towns across Europe, he is credited with bringing well over a thousand professors and students into the Dominican life, including Albertus Magnus. He also played a key role in establishing academic institutions, securing a chair at the University of Paris twice and helping to found the University of Toulouse. Furthermore, he established the Order's first general house of studies. Jordan was also a spiritual mentor to many, including the early Dominican nun Diana degli Andalò. His written works include a biography of Saint Dominic and the "Libellus de principiis Ordinis Praedicatorum," a foundational text for the Order's history. His character, virtue, and miracles were documented by early Dominican chroniclers, who consistently noted his kindness, personal charm, and ability to inspire hope.

Death and Veneration

Jordan of Saxony died in 1237 at the age of forty-seven. His death occurred during a shipwreck off the coast of Syria while returning from a visit to Dominican monasteries in Palestine. He was buried in the Dominican Church of St. John in Akko. His feast day is observed on February 13.

Jordan was beatified by Pope Leo XII in 1825. He is venerated as the patron of Dominican vocations. He is also honored as the patron saint of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines, and the Colegio Jordan de Sajonia in Bogotá, Colombia. Jordan is also credited with introducing the practice of singing the Salve Regina in procession at the end of Compline, a tradition intended to bring peace to the friars.