Saint Peregrine Laziosi

Biography

Saint Peregrine Laziosi, also known as Peregrinus Laziosi, Pellegrino Laziosi, Peregrinus Latiosi, or Pellegrino Latiosi, was born in Forli, Italy, in 1260. He came from a wealthy family and led a worldly youth, becoming involved in politics. Peregrine initially held strong anti-Catholic sentiments and was even known for his opposition to the Church.

During a popular revolt, when tensions ran high, Peregrine struck Saint Philip Benizi, a papal peace negotiator, across the face. In response to this act of violence, Saint Philip turned the other cheek, prayed for Peregrine's conversion, and demonstrated an exceptional example of forgiveness. This profound encounter profoundly impacted Peregrine, leading to his conversion and a change in the course of his life.

After his conversion, Peregrine received a vision of Our Lady who instructed him to go to Siena, Italy, and join the Servites, a religious order. Following his training and ordination, Peregrine was assigned to serve in his hometown. Here, he dedicated himself to a life of penance for his early worldly pursuits. Peregrine chose to live in solitude, observing complete silence and avoiding sitting for 30 years, as a way to atone for his past life. Despite his silence, when he did speak, Peregrine was known as a fervent preacher, an excellent orator, and a gentle confessor.

As part of his dedicated service to God, Peregrine played a significant role in the expansion of the Servite Order. He founded a Servite house in Forli, Italy, where he gathered a community of followers and furthered their mission. Peregrine's devotion and spiritual leadership inspired those around him.

Unfortunately, Peregrine experienced a great trial in his own life when he developed a spreading cancer in his foot. The situation became so severe that amputation was considered necessary. However, the night before the operation, Peregrine deeply prayed, and to his astonishment, he received a vision of Christ, who touched the afflicted area. When Peregrine woke the next morning, he discovered his cancer completely healed, a miraculous event that profoundly affected him and confirmed his devotion to God.

Saint Peregrine Laziosi is often depicted in religious artwork being supported by angels, as Jesus descends from the Cross to heal him. He is venerated as the patron saint against cancer, breast cancer, open sores, skin diseases, and AIDS patients. Additionally, he is regarded as a powerful intercessor for those suffering from illness or in need of healing. The diocese of Forli-Bertinoro, Italy, and the city of Forli itself have chosen Saint Peregrine as their patron saint.

Saint Peregrine was beatified by Pope Paul V on April 15, 1609, and later canonized by Pope Benedict XIII on December 27, 1726. His body remains incorrupt even after his passing, which occurred on May 1, 1345, in Forli, Italy. His feast day is also celebrated on May 1st. Today, Saint Peregrine Laziosi is revered and venerated by Catholics worldwide for his holiness, courage, and profound faith.