Crispin of Viterbo

Crispin of Viterbo, born Pietro Fioretti, was an Italian Roman Catholic friar of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. He lived from November 13, 1668, to May 19, 1750. Fioretti is remembered for his profound devotion to the Virgin Mary, to whom he was consecrated in his childhood, and for his simple, humble way of life. He served the order in various capacities, including as a cook and infirmarian, in several cities around Rome, becoming a well-known figure among both common people and the nobility.

Life and Ministry

Pietro Fioretti was born in Viterbo to Ubaldo Fioretti and Marzia Antoni. His father died when he was very young, and his mother consecrated him to the Mother of God in 1674, an event that deeply shaped his spiritual life. He was educated by the Jesuits and later apprenticed to his shoemaker uncle. In 1693, he entered the Capuchin order, taking the religious name Crispino da Viterbo. During his time as a friar, he served in locations such as Tolfa, Rome, Albano, and Bracciano. In the kitchen at Oviedo, he even created a small altar dedicated to the Virgin Mary. He lived an austere life, often begging for alms and visiting the sick and imprisoned. His humility was evident in his self-description as the "ass" or "beast of burden" for his order.

Miracles and Veneration

Crispin of Viterbo was known as a "wonderworker" during his lifetime, with accounts of miracles attributed to him. He gained the respect and admiration of many, including prominent church officials and Pope Clement XI, who visited him for advice. The desire for his canonization began soon after his death. The formal process began on September 16, 1761. He was declared Venerable in 1796 by Pope Pius VI and beatified by Pope Pius VII in 1806. The cause for his canonization was reopened in the 20th century, with a miracle attributed to his intercession being officially recognized. Pope John Paul II canonized him as a saint on June 20, 1982, marking the first canonization of his pontificate. His remains are preserved and venerated in the Santa Maria della Concezione dei Cappuccini church in Rome.