John of Meda
John of Meda was an Italian monk of the Humiliati Order who served as abbot at monasteries in Milan and Como. He is remembered for his work in adapting the Benedictine Rule for the Humiliati and for introducing the Little Office of Our Lady. He has been declared a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.
- Feast Day
- September 26
- Century
- 12th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›He was born Giovanni Oldrati in the town of Meda, Lombardy.
- ›In 1134, he joined the Humiliati at their Abbey of Viboldone after a vision of the Virgin Mary.
- ›He worked to adapt the Benedictine Rule for the Humiliati.
- ›He founded other monasteries of the Order in the regions of Milan and Lombardy.
- ›He served as an abbot in his later life.
- ›He is known for introducing the Little Office of our Lady.
John of Como
Humiliati
About John of Meda
John of Meda, born Giovanni Oldrati (or Oldradi) in 1100, was an Italian monk of the Humiliati Order and an abbot. He is also known by the name John of Como and lived until his death on September 26, 1159. His life and work within the Humiliati Order led to his declaration as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.
Life and Historical Context
John of Meda's spiritual journey began in 1134 when, after experiencing a vision of the Virgin Mary, he felt called to join the Humiliati at their Abbey of Viboldone. The Humiliati represented a distinctive religious movement of the time, characterized by communities that included families and both men and women living a monastic life, with men often serving as community leaders. This structure led to the movement being viewed with suspicion and sometimes labeled as heretical.
Contributions to the Humiliati
Within the Humiliati Order, John of Meda played a significant role in shaping its practices. He was instrumental in advocating for and working towards the adoption of the Benedictine Rule, adapted to suit the specific needs and structure of the Humiliati. Later in his life, he expanded the order's presence by founding additional monasteries in the regions of Milan and Lombardy. As an abbot, he is also noted for his introduction of the Little Office of Our Lady, a devotional practice.
Veneration
John of Meda is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. His life of devotion and his contributions to monasticism and religious practice within his order have led to his recognition and veneration.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was John of Meda?
John of Meda, also known as John of Como, was an Italian monk of the Humiliati Order. He lived from 1100 to 1159 and served as an abbot at monasteries in Milan and Como.
What religious order did John of Meda belong to?
He belonged to the Humiliati Order, a religious movement that was viewed with suspicion due to its communal structure of families and both men and women.
What were John of Meda's key contributions?
John of Meda is known for his efforts to adapt the Benedictine Rule for the Humiliati and for founding new monasteries for the Order. He is also credited with introducing the Little Office of Our Lady.
When did John of Meda live?
John of Meda was born in 1100 and died on September 26, 1159.
Is John of Meda recognized as a saint?
Yes, John of Meda has been declared a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.
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