Blessed Franco Of Siena

Biography

Blessed Ambrose Sansedoni of Siena, also known as Ambrogio Sansedoni or Ambrose Sansedone, was born on April 16, 1220, in Siena, Italy. He was the son of a book illuminator, and from his early days, it was evident that he was physically deformed. In fact, his condition was so severe that his mother entrusted his care to a nurse. However, it was noticed that the child found solace and peace in the local Dominican church, particularly when he was near the altar of relics.

According to legend, a mysterious pilgrim once told the nurse not to cover the child's face, claiming that he would one day be a glory to the city. Several days later, during a church service, the nurse covered Ambrose's face with a scarf. Miraculously, he stretched out his twisted limbs and pronounced the name "Jesus" – from that moment, all deformity disappeared.

As a child, Ambrose displayed piety and devotion beyond his years. At the age of two, he was given a choice between two of his father's books, and he opted for the one about saints. By the age of seven, he was already reciting the Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary daily. He had a compassionate nature and worked tirelessly with the poor, abandoned, and sick, even from a young age.

Despite opposition from his parents and friends, Ambrose was determined to answer the call to serve God as a preaching friar. On his 17th birthday, in 1237, he joined the Dominican Order in Siena. Ambrose furthered his education in Paris, France, and Cologne, Germany, where he studied under the great Saint Thomas Aquinas and Pope Blessed Innocent V, who was instructed by Saint Albert the Great. During his time in Cologne, Ambrose also taught theology.

Throughout his life, Ambrose engaged in diplomatic missions for both the popes and secular rulers. He tirelessly evangelized in Germany, France, and Italy, using his gift of preaching to spread the Gospel and inspire conversion. His powerful sermons even led Blessed Franco of Siena to pursue a solitary life dedicated to God.

Ambrose was not only known for his oratory skills but also for his deep contemplative prayer life. He experienced ecstasies and visions, and it was said that he would levitate while preaching. Witnesses also reported seeing him encircled in a mystic light and surrounded by brightly colored birds.

Blessed Ambrose Sansedoni died on March 20, 1287, in Siena, Italy, of natural causes. Although he is not explicitly mentioned as being venerated or beatified in the available information, it is known that Pope Gregory XV beatified him on October 8, 1622, confirming his cultus (devotion). His feast day is widely celebrated on March 20, although some calendars commemorate it on October 8 and others on March 22.

Blessed Ambrose Sansedoni of Siena is often depicted in artwork as a Dominican preacher, holding a book or a model of Siena, Italy. In some representations, a dove is seen perched near his ear, symbolizing the inspiration of the Holy Spirit in his preaching ministry. His life and example continue to inspire and encourage others to dedicate themselves to God's service with zeal and devotion.