Saint Charles of Sezze

Biography

Saint Charles of Sezze, also known as Carlo of Sezze, was born on October 19, 1613, in Sezze, Roman Campagna, Italy. He came from a poor but devout family, and from a young age, Charles worked as a shepherd to support his family. Despite his humble beginnings, his family recognized his vocation to the priesthood and encouraged him to pursue it. However, Charles faced significant obstacles on his path to becoming a priest. He was a poor student, struggling to read and write, and he had little hope of succeeding in the seminary. Undeterred, he joined the Franciscan Order as a lay brother at the age of 22, specifically at the friary in Naziano, Italy. Charles' poor health prevented him from embarking on foreign missions, which were common for many Franciscans at the time. Instead, he served in various menial positions at friaries near Rome, including cook, porter, and gardener. Despite his humble tasks, Charles embraced his duties with great devotion and fidelity, truly living out his vocation as a Franciscan. One notable incident occurred when Charles was entrusted with the role of porter. The friary superior commanded him to provide food only to traveling friars, strictly adhering to this rule. However, Charles noticed that the alms received by the friary decreased during this time. With humility and wisdom, he convinced the superior that their lack of generosity towards other travelers was causing the decline in alms. Consequently, Charles was given permission to be more open-handed with those in need, and as a result, the alms increased significantly. In 1656, during a time of severe plague, Charles fearlessly served among the victims, offering spiritual and physical assistance to those suffering. His selfless actions demonstrated his unwavering devotion to his fellow human beings and to God. Throughout his life, Charles had a deep devotion to the Eucharist and the Passion of Christ. He wrote several mystical works and, at the direction of his confessor, penned his autobiography, entitled "The Grandeurs of the Mercies of God." His insightful and contemplative writings have continued to inspire many in their spiritual journeys. Despite his simple and humble role as a lay brother, Charles often found himself sought out for spiritual guidance. Many recognized his holiness and sought his advice in matters of the soul. Even the dying Pope Clement IX called upon Charles to bless him on his deathbed, recognizing the sanctity and wisdom that emanated from this unassuming Franciscan lay brother. One of the most remarkable aspects of Charles' life was his experience as a stigmatist. He bore a visible wound in his side, said to have been opened by a piercing ray of light that shone from an elevated host during Mass at the Church of Saint Joseph a Capo le Case. After his death, the area of the wound was marked with a cross, further solidifying the belief in the miracle that occurred. Saint Charles of Sezze's life was marked by deep faith, humility, and selflessness. His devotion to the Eucharist and the Passion of Christ guided his every action, and his writings and counsel continue to inspire many in their spiritual journeys. He was venerated by Pope Clement XIV on June 14, 1772, for his heroic virtues, beatified by Pope Leo XIII on January 22, 1882, and canonized by Pope John XXIII on April 12, 1959. Though he remains a relatively lesser-known saint, Saint Charles of Sezze's life serves as a shining example of holiness and service to God and neighbor.