Blessed Peter De Geremia

Biography

Blessed Cosmas of Palermo, also known as Cosma, was born in Palermo, Sicily, Italy. From an early age, he felt a strong calling to serve the Church. As a teenager, he was ordained a deacon and continued his studies, eventually becoming a priest.

Cosmas' dedication to his faith and his desire to spread the message of Christianity led to his consecration as a traveling missionary bishop by Pope Eugene III. For approximately ten years, Cosmas devoted himself to the liberation of slaves and the conversion of the Saracens in North Africa.

His work in North Africa was arduous and challenging, but he remained steadfast in his mission. Cosmas faced numerous obstacles, but his commitment to bringing people to Christianity and providing assistance to those in need never wavered.

Tragically, on September 10, 1160, Blessed Cosmas of Palermo passed away from natural causes. There is conflicting information regarding the exact location of his death, with some accounts suggesting it occurred either in Palermo, Sicily, Italy, or while celebrating Mass in North Africa. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding his demise, his body was eventually brought back to Palermo.

Cosmas' tomb in the crypt of the cathedral of Palermo quickly became a place of pilgrimage for many. Devotees traveled from far and wide, reporting numerous miraculous healings, particularly of fevers, attributed to his intercession. In 1369, his relics were enshrined inside the cathedral, further amplifying his veneration.

Over the years, the location of Cosmas' relics within the cathedral complex underwent several relocations. In 1580, during the reconstruction of the cathedral, the relics found a new home in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception. They were subsequently transferred to the altar of Blessed Peter de Geremia in 1736 and later to the Chapel of the Sacristy of the Canons in 1909. Finally, on February 5, 1910, the relics were placed in the Chapel of Relics in the Palermo cathedral.

Devotion to Blessed Cosmas of Palermo was immediate upon his death, and his cultus began to develop. In 1737, his name was inscribed in the Proper of the diocese of Palermo, Italy. In 1771, his memorial on September 12 was added to the calendar of the diocese. Pope Leo XIII further recognized his sanctity by beatifying him in 1887, granting a Mass and office in his honor.

Blessed Cosmas of Palermo stands as an inspiration to all who encounter obstacles in their pursuit of spreading the Christian faith. His unwavering dedication to the liberation of slaves and the conversion of unbelievers serves as a model of faith and compassion. The ongoing veneration of his relics and the reported miracles associated with his intercession testify to the profound impact he has had on the lives of countless individuals throughout history.