Saint Salvator of Horta

Biography

Saint Salvator of Horta, also known as Salvatore Grionesos da Horta, Salvador, or Salvatore, was born in 1520 in the town of Santa Columba, Gerona, Spain. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he worked as a shepherd before his religious vocation beckoned him. In his youth, Salvator felt a strong calling to serve God. Determined to answer this calling, he joined the Franciscan Order as a lay brother in Barcelona, Spain. Despite his lack of formal education, his deep faith and service-oriented attitude made him a valuable member of the community. Within the friary, Salvator took on various roles. He worked as a shoemaker, cook, beggar, and porter, fulfilling the tasks assigned to him with unwavering dedication. His humility and simplicity endeared him to those around him, and he was well-loved by both his fellow friars and the people of Barcelona. Salvator's greatest gift, however, lay in his ability to heal. It is said that his cell in the friary became a place of pilgrimage for the sick and afflicted. Miraculously, he is reported to have cured as many as 2,000 people in a single day. Numerous accounts of important healings and conversions that took place through his intercession have been recorded. His fame spread far and wide, attracting visitors from different parts of Spain and beyond. Many sought his guidance, spiritual counsel, and prayers for their physical ailments. Despite the increasing number of pilgrims seeking his help, he remained humble and devoted to his duties within the friary. In 1562, Salvator traveled from Spain to the island of Sardinia, Italy, to establish a new friary. His dedication to the Franciscan ideals and his tireless service continued to inspire those around him. Salvator spent the remaining years of his life in Cagliari, Sardinia, where he eventually passed away on 18 March 1567. The cause of his death was natural causes. Recognizing his holiness and the many miracles attributed to him, Salvator was beatified on 15 February 1606 by Pope Paul V, and later canonized on 17 April 1938 by Pope Pius XI. Pope Clement XI also confirmed his beatification on 29 January 1711. Though Saint Salvator of Horta does not have a specific patronage associated with him, his life and intercession continue to inspire individuals seeking healing, guidance, and strength in their own lives. His selfless dedication to serving others, particularly the sick and afflicted, serves as a reminder of the importance of compassion and the power of faith. His feast day is celebrated on 18 March, and he is also honored on 17 April by the Friars Minor.