Saint Leonard of Port Maurice

Biography

Saint Leonard of Port Maurice, also known as Jerome Casanova or Paul Jerome Casanova, was born on 20 December 1676 in Porto Maurizio, Italy on the Riviera di Ponente. He was the son of Domenico Casanova, a sea captain, and Anna Maria Benza. At the age of thirteen, Leonard was placed with his uncle Agostino to study medicine and pursue a career as a physician. However, he decided against this path, and his uncle disowned him for his choice. Leonard instead chose to pursue a life devoted to God and entered the Jesuit College in Rome, Italy. In 1697, he joined the Riformella, a branch of the Franciscans of the Strict Observance, taking the name Brother Leonard. He was ordained in Rome in 1703 and began teaching. Leonard was expected to become a missionary to China, but his plans were delayed due to a bleeding ulcer. It took several years for him to recover and regain his strength. In 1709, Leonard was sent to Florence, Italy, where he became a renowned preacher in the city and its nearby region. Known for his devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, Sacred Heart, Immaculate Conception, and the Stations of the Cross, he was frequently invited to preach in various places. Leonard established the Way of the Cross in over 500 locations, including conducting the devotion at the Colosseum in Rome. In 1744, Pope Benedict XIV appointed Leonard as a missionary to the island of Corsica. He was tasked with restoring discipline among the holy orders there. However, local politics greatly limited his success in preaching. After an exhausting period, Leonard returned to Rome, where he spent the remainder of his days. Saint Leonard of Port Maurice passed away at the monastery of Saint Bonaventura in Rome, Italy, at 11:00 pm on 26 November 1751. His devotion and dedication to spreading his faith had left a significant impact. Recognizing his virtues and holiness, he was beatified by Pope Pius VI on 19 March 1796. Later, on 29 June 1869, he was canonized as a saint by Pope Pius XI. Saint Leonard is often represented in art with the Blessed Virgin Mary, emphasizing his strong devotion to her. He is the patron saint of Imperia, Italy, and is also known for his work in leading parish missions. His feast day is celebrated on 26 November each year.