Fortunatus of Spoleto
Saint Fortunatus of Spoleto was a parish priest in Umbria during the 4th and 5th centuries, venerated in the Catholic Church. He is remembered for his profound charity and love for the poor, even while experiencing poverty himself. A legend highlights his selfless generosity when he gave away coins that miraculously shone like gold.
- Feast Day
- 1 June
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Fortunatus of Spoleto was a parish priest near Spoleto in Umbria.
- ›He lived sometime between the 4th and 5th centuries.
- ›He is commemorated on June 1st in the Roman Martyrology.
- ›He is described as a native of Montefalco.
- ›Fortunatus was noted for his charity and love for the poor.
- ›A local cult developed around him, leading to the dedication of the Convent of San Fortunato.
About Fortunatus of Spoleto
Saint Fortunatus of Spoleto was a parish priest who lived in Umbria, Italy, sometime between the 4th and 5th centuries AD. He is venerated as a saint within the Catholic Church, with his feast day observed on 1 June according to the Roman Martyrology.
Life and Veneration
Historical details about Fortunatus are scarce. The Roman Martyrology identifies him as a native of Montefalco, a hill town near Spoleto. He gained renown for his profound charity and love for the poor, even though he himself lived in poverty. A notable legend describes him finding two seemingly insignificant coins while working in a field. Later that evening, upon encountering a poor man, Fortunatus offered him the coins. At that moment, the coins were illuminated by sunlight, shining like gold. To avoid any temptation of avarice, Fortunatus quickly gave the treasure to the poor man and departed.
Following his death, Fortunatus became the focus of a local devotional cult. The Convent of San Fortunato, located near Montefalco, was subsequently dedicated in his honor, reflecting his enduring local significance.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Saint Fortunatus of Spoleto live?
Saint Fortunatus of Spoleto lived sometime between the 4th and 5th centuries. He is believed to have died around AD 400.
What is Saint Fortunatus of Spoleto known for?
He is chiefly remembered for his great charity and love for the poor, despite being a poor man himself. A legend also highlights his virtue when he gave away coins that shone like gold.
Where was Saint Fortunatus of Spoleto from?
According to the Roman Martyrology, he was a native of Montefalco, a hill town near Spoleto in Umbria.
When is the feast day of Saint Fortunatus of Spoleto?
The latest official edition of the Roman Martyrology commemorates Saint Fortunatus of Spoleto on June 1st.
Is there a church or convent dedicated to Saint Fortunatus of Spoleto?
Yes, after his death, a local cult emerged, and the Convent of San Fortunato near Montefalco was dedicated to him.
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