San Francesco di Paola (1416-1507) was an hermit and the founder of the Order of Minims in the 15th century in Italy. Born in Paola, Calabria, he became known for his deep spirituality, ascetic lifestyle, and numerous miracles attributed to him.
As a young man, Francesco made a pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi, where he deepened his religious vocation. Returning to Calabria, he led a hermitic life dedicated to prayer and penance. His reputation for holiness grew rapidly, attracting many followers who wished to emulate his lifestyle. This led to the founding of the Order of Minims in 1435, so named because its members sought to live as the "least" or most humble, in humility and penance. The Order was dedicated to prayer, fasting, and serving others, with a particular emphasis on charity and assisting the needy.
Francesco di Paola was known for his simplicity, moral rigor, and his alleged miracles, which included healings, prophecies, and control over nature. His reputation for holiness spread far beyond the borders of Italy, so much so that the King of France, Louis XI, called him to his bedside in the hope of being healed.
San Francesco di Paola died on April 2, 1507, in France. He was canonized by Pope Leo X in 1519. He is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church, and his feast day is April 2. San Francesco di Paola is particularly revered in Calabria, his homeland, and throughout Italy. He is considered the patron saint of Italian sailors for a miracle in which he is said to have crossed the Strait of Messina on a cloak. His life and work continue to be an example of devotion, humility, and service to others.
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