Saint Charles

Saint Charles was born in Sezze, Rome, on 19 October 1613. He was named John Charles Marchioni and was brought up in faith by his maternal grandmother. Backward in his studies, he had to give up schooling and became a shepherd, rearing the cattle for his family. He wanted to become a priest, but his lack of scholarship denied him entry into the priesthood. He joined the Franciscans as a lay brother at Naziano and served as a cook, porter, and gardener in different monasteries in Italy. Though disastrous at everyday tasks, he became known for his holiness, simplicity, and charity. He wrote several acclaimed mystical works, including his autobiography, 'The Grandeurs of the Mercies of God'. During the plague of 1656, he worked heroically to help those stricken by illness. He was especially kind to travelers who came to the monasteries and was sought out for spiritual advice by many. Tradition holds that Pope Clement IX called Charles to his deathbed for a blessing. St. Charles died on 6 January 1670 in Rome. Pope John XXIII canonized him in 1959. 

Almighty Father, you kept St. Charles of Sezze faithful to Christ's pattern of poverty and humility. May his prayers help us to live in fidelity to our calling and bring us to the perfection you have shown us in your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Prepared and updated by:

Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,

Penampang, Sabah Malaysia.