Gerolamo Emiliani
Gerolamo Emiliani was an Italian humanitarian and the founder of the Somaschi Fathers. He is remembered for his tireless work caring for the sick, hungry, and especially orphans, leading to the establishment of numerous hospitals and orphanages. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church and is the patron saint of orphans.
- Feast Day
- February 8
- Century
- 16th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Gerolamo Emiliani was born in Venice in 1486.
- ›He served in the military and as a magistrate before dedicating himself to charity.
- ›Emiliani founded the Congregation of Regular Clerics, known as the Somaschi Fathers, to care for orphans and the poor.
- ›He established hospitals and orphanages in several northern Italian towns.
- ›He died on February 8, 1537, in Somasca.
- ›He was canonized in 1767 and is the patron saint of orphans.
Jerome Aemilian, Hiëronymus Emiliani
Somaschi Fathers
About Gerolamo Emiliani
Gerolamo Emiliani (1486 – 8 February 1537) was an Italian humanitarian and religious figure, venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church. He is celebrated for his profound dedication to the care of the sick, the hungry, and especially orphans, establishing institutions that provided vital support and shelter.
Life and Historical Context
Born in Venice, Emiliani initially pursued a military career and later served as a magistrate. A pivotal moment in his life, attributed to divine intervention after his escape from captivity, led him to dedicate his life to God and charitable works. He devoted his remaining years to tending to the needs of the poor and orphaned, particularly in the wake of plague and famine.
Major Contributions
Emiliani's most significant contribution was the founding of the Congregation of Regular Clerics, now known as the Somaschi Fathers, in 1532. The principal mission of this order was the care of orphans, the poor, and the sick, with a commitment to living according to the principles of religious poverty. Through his efforts, a number of hospitals and orphanages were established in several northern Italian towns, including Verona, Brescia, Bergamo, and Milan. He also founded a hostel for repentant prostitutes in Bergamo.
Veneration and Legacy
Gerolamo Emiliani was beatified by Pope Benedict XIV in 1747 and canonized by Pope Clement XIII on July 16, 1767. He is recognized as the patron saint of orphans and abandoned children. His feast day is celebrated on February 8, the anniversary of his death. The St. Gerolamo Emiliani Sanctuary in Somasca houses his remains, a testament to his enduring influence.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Gerolamo Emiliani?
Gerolamo Emiliani was an Italian humanitarian and the founder of the Somaschi Fathers. He lived from 1486 to 1537 and is recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church for his extensive charitable work.
What is Gerolamo Emiliani known for?
He is chiefly remembered for his humanitarian efforts, especially his dedication to caring for the sick, hungry, and orphans. He also founded the Congregation of Regular Clerics, known as the Somaschi Fathers, to continue this work.
When was Gerolamo Emiliani canonized?
Gerolamo Emiliani was beatified in 1747 and canonized by Pope Clement XIII on July 16, 1767.
Who is Gerolamo Emiliani the patron saint of?
In 1928, Pope Pius XI named Saint Gerolamo Emiliani the patron saint of orphans and abandoned children.
Where did Gerolamo Emiliani establish his charitable institutions?
Gerolamo Emiliani established hospitals and orphanages in several northern Italian towns, including Verona, Brescia, Bergamo, and Milan.
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