Charles of Sezze
Charles of Sezze, born Giancarlo Marchioni, was an Italian friar of the Order of Friars Minor known for his austere life, menial service, and prolific writing. Despite his parents' opposition to his religious vocation, he embraced a life of poverty and service, earning the respect of noble families and popes for his spiritual counsel. He was canonized as a saint in 1959.
- Feast Day
- January 6
- Century
- 17th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›He was born Giancarlo Marchioni in Sezze on October 19, 1613, to poor farmers.
- ›Despite his parents' desire for him to become a priest, he joined the Order of Friars Minor against their wishes.
- ›He led an austere life, performing menial tasks such as being a porter and gardener.
- ›He was a prolific writer, with "the Grandeurs of the Mercies of God" being a notable work.
- ›He was highly regarded for his spiritual advice by families like the Colonna and Orsini, and by popes such as Innocent X and Clement IX.
- ›He was canonized on April 12, 1959, by Pope John XXIII.
Giancarlo Marchioni, Cosmas
About Charles of Sezze
Charles of Sezze, born Giancarlo Marchioni on October 19, 1613, in Sezze, Italy, was an Italian professed religious of the Order of Friars Minor. Despite his parents' wishes for him to become a priest, he embraced a life of austerity, performing menial tasks such as acting as a porter and gardener. He is also recognized as a noted writer.
Life and Historical Context
Giancarlo Marchioni was born to poor farmers, Ruggero Marchioni and Antonia Maccione. His early life was marked by devout practices instilled by his maternal grandmother. He worked as a shepherd and made a private vow of chastity in 1630. After a near-death illness in 1633, he pledged to join the Order of Friars Minor, which he did in 1635, receiving the habit on May 18, 1635. He took the religious name "Carlo" at his mother's insistence. He served in various roles within the friaries, including cook, porter, sacristan, and gardener, and also engaged in begging for alms. His life was characterized by a deep spiritual commitment, though he never sought ordination to the priesthood. He experienced mystical phenomena, including a wound on his side that appeared after witnessing a beam of light from an elevated Host in 1648.
Contributions and Relationships
Charles of Sezze was a prolific writer, with works such as "The Grandeurs of the Mercies of God" being well-read. Despite not being a priest, he was sought for spiritual advice by prominent figures, including Pope Innocent X and Pope Alexander VII. He ministered to victims of cholera at Carpineto in 1656. His final years were marked by interactions with Pope Clement IX, whom he comforted on his deathbed. He died on January 6, 1670, in Rome.
Sainthood
Charles of Sezze was granted the title of Venerable by Pope Clement XIV on June 14, 1772. Pope Leo XIII beatified him on January 22, 1882. Pope Pius XII confirmed two additional miracles, and his canonization was completed by Pope John XXIII on April 12, 1959.
Legacy
Charles of Sezze's legacy lies in his humble service, his profound spiritual life, and his devotional writings. He remains venerated for his piety and the esteem in which he was held by both the common people and the highest authorities of the Church. His remnants are preserved at the church of San Francesco a Ripa in Rome.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Charles of Sezze?
Charles of Sezze, born Giancarlo Marchioni, was an Italian friar of the Order of Friars Minor. He is known for his austere life, menial work, and spiritual writings.
Why is Charles of Sezze important?
He is important for his deep spirituality and the respected counsel he offered to noble families and popes, despite not being ordained a priest. He was canonized for his exemplary life of virtue.
What did Charles of Sezze do as a friar?
He performed various menial tasks, including serving as a porter, gardener, cook, and beggar. He also wrote several books, including "The Grandeurs of the Mercies of God."
When was Charles of Sezze canonized?
Charles of Sezze was canonized on April 12, 1959, by Pope John XXIII. He had been beatified by Pope Leo XIII in 1882.
What prompted Charles of Sezze to become a friar?
He made a private vow to join the Order of Friars Minor if he recovered from a near-fatal illness in 1633. He was inspired by the lives of saints Pascal Baylon and Salvador of Horta.
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