Berardo
Berardo was an Italian saint and the patron saint of the city and diocese of Teramo. Born into a noble family, he entered monastic life and later became a bishop, dedicating himself to aiding the poor and fostering peace among his flock. He is primarily remembered for his pastoral work in Teramo and the miracles attributed to him.
- Feast Day
- December 19
- Century
- 12th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Berardo was born into the noble da Pagliara family in the Abruzzo region of Italy.
- ›He entered the monastery at Montecassino and was later associated with the Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere.
- ›Berardo served as pastor in the territory of Teramo for seven years starting in 1116.
- ›He focused his efforts on helping the poor and making peace among warring factions.
- ›His remains were transferred to the Teramo Cathedral around 1174 and later to a dedicated chapel in 1776.
- ›The Feast of Saint Berardo is celebrated on December 19.
Teramo
Montecassino, San Giovanni In Venere
About Berardo
Berardo (11th century – December 19, 1123) is an Italian saint, venerated as the patron saint of the city and diocese of Teramo. His life and deeds are documented in ancient church records and chronicles, painting a picture of a devoted clergyman.
Life and Ministry
Born into the noble da Pagliara family in the Abruzzo region of Italy, Berardo entered the monastic life at Montecassino at a young age. He was later associated with the Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere. His reputation for good works led to his appointment as pastor in the territory of Teramo following the death of Bishop Uberto. He served in this role for seven years, beginning in 1116, dedicating his efforts to assisting the poor and fostering peace among the region's warring factions.
Berardo died in 1123 and was initially interred in what is now known as St. Anne's chapel within the ancient Teramo Cathedral of Santa Maria Aprutiensis. This location survived the destruction of Teramo by Norman commander Roberto di Loretello. Around 1174, Bishop Attone initiated the transfer of Berardo's remains to the newly constructed Teramo Cathedral. They were first placed in a crypt, where they remained for six centuries, before being moved in 1776 to a chapel dedicated to his honor, built during the leadership of Bishop Pirelli.
Cult and Veneration
Saint Berardo's feast day is observed on December 19, the anniversary of his death. Numerous miracles have been attributed to his intercession. His presence is memorialized in Teramo Cathedral through various artistic representations, including a 16th-century silver bust, a 17th-century silver likeness of his arm offering a blessing, and a stone statue that once covered his crypt. The cathedral also houses a 17th-century altarpiece by Sebastiano Majeski, "The Miracle of Saint Berardo," and a painting by Giuseppe Bonolis depicting the Virgin Mary and Saint Berardo liberating Teramo from a siege. A significant collection of engravings and prints related to Berardo, compiled by Raffaele Aurini in 1973, serves as a comprehensive biographical and iconographical resource. The municipal authorities of Teramo have, at various times, revived the custom of lighting a large candle in his honor.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Saint Berardo born?
Saint Berardo was born into the noble da Pagliara family. His family's castle bore their name and was located near the town of Isola del Gran Sasso in the Abruzzo region of Italy.
What was Saint Berardo known for during his time as pastor in Teramo?
During his seven years as pastor in Teramo, beginning in 1116, Berardo focused his efforts on helping the poor and making peace amongst the warring factions of the local citizenry.
Where are Saint Berardo's remains located?
Berardo was initially buried in what is now known as St. Anne's chapel in the ancient Teramo Cathedral. Around 1174, his remains were transferred to the newly completed cathedral, and in 1776, they were moved to a chapel built in his honor.
When is the Feast of Saint Berardo celebrated?
The Feast of Saint Berardo is celebrated on December 19, which commemorates the day of his death.
What artistic representations exist of Saint Berardo?
Several artistic representations of Saint Berardo exist, including a 16th-century silver bust and a 17th-century silver arm giving a blessing, both in Teramo Cathedral. There are also paintings and a stone statue dedicated to his honor.
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