Blessed Clement Of Osimo

Biography

Blessed Clement of Osimo, also known as Clemente, was born in 1235 in either Osimo or San Elpidio, Italy (sources vary). Little is known about his early life, but he dedicated himself to a life of faith and service to the Church as a priest.

Clement joined the Congregation of Hermits of Brettino, which later merged with the Augustinian Hermits in 1256. He quickly rose through the ranks of the order, exhibiting great potential for leadership and deep devotion to the Augustinian ideals. His commitment and dedication led to his appointment as the Augustinian Provincial Prior of the Marches of Ancona, Italy in 1269.

In 1271, Clement was chosen as the third Augustinian Prior General on Pentecost Sunday, a position he held until 1274. During his tenure, he tirelessly visited Augustinian houses throughout Italy and France, striving to strengthen and unify the order. He played a significant role in the Second Council of Lyons in 1274, representing the interests of the Augustinian Order and contributing to the decisions made during the council.

Renowned for his wisdom and leadership abilities, Clement was unanimously chosen as the Augustinian Prior General once again in 1284, a position he held until the end of his life. He worked closely with another blessed Augustinian friar, Augustine of Tarano, to revise the constitutions of the order. Their revised constitutions were implemented in 1290 and stood as a guiding document for the Augustinian Order for centuries.

As Prior General, Clement emphasized the strict observance of the Augustinian Rule and encouraged his fellow friars to seek education and knowledge. He improved the training of Augustinian novices, founded five Augustinian schools, and supported the establishment of libraries within the order. Clement's contributions played a crucial role in fostering intellectual pursuits within the Augustinian community.

Blessed Clement had a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and he actively passed on this devotion to the Augustinians. His devotion and commitment to Mary can be seen in his efforts to promote Marian traditions and practices within the order.

Known for his holiness and spiritual gifts, Blessed Clement was also recognized as a miracle worker. His numerous acts of intercession and miraculous deeds bore witness to his sanctity and enhanced his reputation as a beloved figure within the Church.

After a life dedicated to the service of God and the Augustinian Order, Blessed Clement of Osimo passed away on 8 April 1291 in Orvieto, Tuscany, Italy, of natural causes. His burial at the Augustinian house in Orvieto was delayed by the order of Pope Nicholas IV to allow ample time for mourners to pay their respects. Later, some relics of Blessed Clement were sent to Osimo and San Elpidio, Italy.

In the early 18th century, all of his relics were gathered and re-interred in the Saint Augustine church in Rome, Italy. Finally, on 4 May 1970, his remains were re-interred in the chapel of the Augustinian General Headquarters in Rome, where they rest to this day.

Blessed Clement of Osimo was beatified by Pope Clement XIII in 1761, confirming his cultus or popular veneration. He is honored by the Church on his feast days, which are celebrated on 8 April and 19 May for the Augustinians.

The life and legacy of Blessed Clement of Osimo continue to inspire and guide the Augustinian Order and all those who strive to live a life of deep faith, devotion, and service to God and the Church.