Blessed Lorenzo Company

Biography

Blessed Lorenzo Company, also known as Lorenzo Company González, was born in 1415 in El Puig, Spain. As a young man, he joined the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy, commonly known as the Mercedarians, dedicated to the ransoming of Christian captives from Muslim enslavement.

Lorenzo Company's dedication and commitment to his vocation led him to become the Commander of the convent of Santa Maria degli Angeli in El Puig. During his tenure, he demonstrated exemplary leadership and spiritual guidance to the members of his community.

In the year 1442, Lorenzo embarked on a mission to Tunisia, with the noble intention of redeeming captives from slavery. Unfortunately, fate had a different plan, as he and another Mercedarian friar, Blessed Pierre Boffet, were shipwrecked during their journey. Subsequently, they were both captured and held hostage for ransom themselves.

Lorenzo endured a long and arduous period of fifteen years imprisoned in Tunisia. Despite the harsh conditions of captivity, he continued to fulfill his religious duties and ministered to his fellow prisoners. His unwavering faith and compassionate service endeared him to those he encountered, offering them solace and hope during their confinement.

After his release in 1457, Lorenzo returned to his homeland, Spain. Recognizing his exceptional qualities of leadership and holiness, he was appointed as the Master-General of the Mercedarians on June 23, 1474. In this role, he continued to uphold the principles of his Order and worked tirelessly to promote the mission of ransoming captives.

Throughout his life, Blessed Lorenzo Company was known for his spiritual strength and miraculous interventions. Numerous accounts of his ability to perform miracles exist, depicting his close connection with God and his unwavering dedication to the redemption of souls.

On December 20, 1479, Blessed Lorenzo Company passed away peacefully in El Puig, Spain, succumbing to natural causes. He was interred in the church at El Puig, where his memory is preserved to this day.

Although he has not yet been officially canonized and is not widely venerated or recognized, Lorenzo Company's life and ministry continue to inspire those who study and learn about him. His extraordinary devotion, fortitude, and commitment to the welfare of others make him a beautiful example of Christian service and selflessness.