Saint Andrew Corsini's life is an inspiring story of personal transformation and steadfast commitment to his religious calling. Born into Florence's esteemed Corsini family in 1302, his early years were marked by extravagance and vice. However, a crucial moment of reflection at the Santa Maria del Carmine church sparked a profound change in him. He embraced a life of asceticism, joining the Carmelite Order and dedicating himself to strict self-discipline.
St. Andrew was ordained as a priest in 1328 and became known as the "Apostle of Florence" for his eloquent preaching. His dedication to his religious calling stayed strong, even when he became the Bishop of Fiesole in 1349, a role he initially hesitated to accept. As a bishop, he continued to lead a life of simplicity dedicated to helping the poor, earning a reputation as a compassionate peacemaker.
While celebrating the midnight Mass on Christmas Eve in the year 1373, the Blessed Virgin appeared to him and told him he would leave this world on the Feast of the Epiphany to meet God. It did come to pass, and he died on that day. Following his passing, people shared stories of miracles at his tomb. Pope Eugene IV acknowledged his holiness by beatifying him in 1440, and Pope Urban VIII officially declared him a saint in 1629.
Prayer
O God, You continually provide Your Church with new examples of virtue;
may Your people follow in the footsteps of the blessed confessor bishop Andrew and obtain the same reward he now enjoys.
Prepared and updated by:
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Penampang, Sabah Malaysia.
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