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Feast Day: January 15
Death: January 15, 1325
Blessed Angelus of Gualdo Tadino, also known as Angelo, was born into a poor family around 1265 in Gualdo Tadino, Nocera, Italy. From a young age, he displayed a deep devotion to his faith and a strong desire for a life of holiness. As a youth, he embarked on a remarkable pilgrimage, walking barefoot to Compostela in northern Spain. It was during this journey that Angelus encountered the Camaldolese monks and decided to join their order as a lay-brother.
After entering the Camaldolese order, Angelus led a life of extreme austerity, simplicity, and solitude. He spent the next forty years as a hermit, secluded in his cell. Angelus voluntarily chose to wall himself up, withdrawing from worldly temptations and distractions, dedicating himself entirely to prayer, contemplation, and ascetic practices.
Although living in isolation, the gentle and innocent nature of Blessed Angelus was renowned among his fellow monks and the local community. He embraced a life of profound humility and purity, serving as an inspiration to those who encountered him. Angelus' simplicity of heart and his commitment to a life of prayer enabled him to deepen his relationship with God and develop a profound spirituality.
Blessed Angelus of Gualdo Tadino passed away on 15 January 1325 from natural causes. He was interred in the church of Saint Benedict in Gualdo Tadino, Italy. His relics were later transferred to a chapel in the local abbey church by Blessed Alessandro Vincioli in 1343. On 16 April 1443, his remains were further transferred to a new altar established in the basilica of Saint Benedict, where they continue to be venerated.
The humble life and spiritual virtues of Blessed Angelus left a lasting impact, and his reputation for holiness spread throughout the Christian community. Pope Urban VIII beatified him in 1633, confirming his cultus, or public veneration. His beatification was further confirmed by Pope Leo XII on 3 August 1825.
Blessed Angelus of Gualdo Tadino's dedication to a life of prayer and solitude serves as an example of profound spiritual devotion and commitment to God. His simplicity, innocence, and gentleness continue to inspire and guide those who seek to deepen their faith.