March 29, 2003
Blessed Ludovico of Casoria
(1814-1885)
Born in Casoria (near Naples), Arcangelo Palmentieri was a cabinet-maker before
entering the Friars Minor in 1832, taking the name Ludovico. After his ordination five
years later, he taught chemistry, physics and mathematics to younger members of his
province for several years.
In 1847 he had a mystical experience which he later described as a cleansing. After
that he dedicated his life to the poor and the infirm, establishing a dispensary for
the poor, two schools for African children, an institute for the children of nobility,
as well as an institution for orphans, the deaf and the speechless, and other
institutes for the blind, elderly and for travelers. In addition to an infirmary for
friars of his province, he began charitable institutes in Naples, Florence and Assisi.
He once said, "Christs love has wounded my heart." This love prompted him to great
acts of charity.
To help continue these works of mercy, in 1859 he established the Gray Brothers, a
religious community composed of men who formerly belonged to the Secular Franciscan
Order. Three years later he founded the Gray Sisters of St. Elizabeth for the same
purpose.
Toward the beginning of his final, nine-year illness, Ludovico wrote a spiritual
testament which described faith as "light in the darkness, help in sickness, blessing
in tribulations, paradise in the crucifixion and life amid death." The local work for
his beatification began within five months of Ludovicos death. He was beatified in
1993.
Comment:
Saintly people are not protected from suffering, but with Gods help they learn how to
develop compassion from it. In the face of great suffering, we move either toward
compassion or indifference. Saintly men and women show us the path toward compassion.
REFLECTION:
Ludovicos spiritual testament begins: "The Lord called me to
himself with a most tender love, and with an infinite charity he led and directed me
along the path of my life."
(American catholic.org)
**O Jesus ! Who for love of me,
Didst bear Thy Cross to Calvary ;
In Thy sweet mercy grant to me
To suffer & die with Thee...**
S.THOMAS
NOTTINGHAM
ENGLAND
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