Saint Philaret of Calabria

Biography

St. Philaret of Calabria, also known as Philaret the Gardener or Philaret of Ortolano, was born around the year 1020 in Palermo, Italy. He belonged to a Calabrian family who had been forced to emigrate due to the Saracen invasion. In 1040, Philaret returned to his homeland of Calabria and settled in Reggio Calabria. Seeking a life of solitude and contemplation, he became a monk at the monastery of Saint Elias of Aurlia. During his time at the monastery, Philaret dedicated himself to spiritual practices and lived a life of humble service. As a monk, Philaret undertook various tasks, most notably working as a shepherd and gardener. He would spend his days tending to the monastery's flock of sheep and cultivating a garden. Philaret's bountiful harvests were not meant for personal gain, but rather to provide sustenance for the poor and his fellow monks. Philaret's commitment to prayer and work exemplified a deep sense of humility. His dedication to the needs of others, especially the less fortunate, inspired those around him. Recognizing his holiness and the impact of his actions, the monastery of Saint Elias was later renamed Elias and Filaret in 1133 in his honor. St. Philaret of Calabria died at the dawn of April 6, 1070, in Palmi, Italy. His passing was attributed to natural causes. He was laid to rest in the church at the monastery of Saint Elias on Monte Aulinas. Over the years, St. Philaret's memory and the significance of his life have been preserved through the veneration of relics. Some of his relics were enshrined in the sanctuary museum of Our Lady of the Poor in Seminara, Italy, in 1451. Additionally, one of his arms was preserved as a relic in the church of San Basilio in Palermo, Italy, starting in 1701. This relic was later transferred to the cathedral of Palermo on January 14, 1703. St. Philaret of Calabria has been recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church, although his canonization occurred before the formal Congregation for the Causes of Saints was established. Therefore, he is considered a pre-congregation saint. His feast days are celebrated on April 6 and, in some calendars, also on April 8. While St. Philaret's specific patronage is not mentioned, his life of humble service and dedication to others would make him an inspiring patron for those seeking guidance in selflessness, contemplation, and providing for the poor.