Saint Juliana Falconieri

Biography

Saint Juliana Falconieri, also known as Giuliana Falconieri, was born in 1270 in Florence, Italy. She was the only child of a wealthy noble family, Chiarissimo and Riguirdata Falconieri, and was the niece of Saint Alexis Falconieri. Unfortunately, Juliana's father passed away when she was quite young, but her uncle Alexis played a significant role in her upbringing and spiritual development. From a young age, Juliana experienced chronic gastric problems that persisted throughout her life. It is said that she never gazed into a mirror, avoiding any vanity or superficiality. Additionally, she never looked directly at a man's face and would tremble at the mention of sin. The saint was also known to faint upon hearing scandalous gossip. At the age of 14, Juliana declined an arranged marriage, feeling called to dedicate her life completely to Christ. In 1285, she became a Servite tertiary, taking the habit from her spiritual director, Saint Philip Benizi. Juliana's dedication and piety were soon recognized, and she played a pivotal role in the formation of the Servite Order of Mary, also known as the Servite Nuns or the Mantellate Servites. The Servite Order of Mary was formally established in 1304, and Juliana served as its first superior. Under her guidance, the first convent of the order was founded in 1305. Juliana had a profound impact on the lives of those around her, guiding and inspiring the Servite Sisters in their devotion to Mary and their mission of service to others. Towards the end of her life, Juliana's gastric problems worsened to the point that she was unable to receive Holy Communion due to constant vomiting. However, in her deep faith, Juliana requested the priest to spread a corporal upon her breast and place the Host upon it. Miraculously, the Host disappeared, and shortly after, Juliana passed away. An image of the cross, which had been on the Host, was discovered on her breast. Saint Juliana Falconieri is often depicted in the habit of the Servite Order with a Host upon her breast. Her feast day is celebrated on June 19th. Following her death, her relics were enshrined at the church of San Annunziata in Florence, where they remain to this day. In recognition of her holiness and profound impact, Saint Juliana Falconieri was beatified on July 26, 1678, by Pope Innocent XI. She was canonized on June 16, 1737, by Pope Clement XII. As a patron saint, Juliana is invoked against sickness and is a special advocate for sick people, interceding for their spiritual and physical well-being.