Saint of the day, July 21

July 21: St. Lawrence of Brindisi

Born: July 22, 1559

Died: July 22, 1619

Nationality: Italian

Vocation: Capuchin Franciscan priest

Attributes: The Infant Jesus; crucifix

Patronage: Brindisi

Canonization: Dec. 8, 1881, by Pope Leo XIII

St. Lawrence of Brindisi is remembered as a gifted preacher and Doctor of the Church whose extraordinary knowledge of Scripture was matched by a profound love for God and His people.

Born Julius Caesar Russo, he entered the Capuchin Franciscans as a teenager, taking the name Lawrence. Blessed with an exceptional gift for languages, he devoted himself to studying Sacred Scripture in its original languages and became renowned for his preaching. His remarkable command of Hebrew also enabled him to engage Jewish communities with a deep knowledge of the Old Testament, leading many to embrace the Christian faith.

Lawrence's wisdom, humility, and deep life of prayer led the Church to entrust him with great responsibilities. As a leader of the Capuchin Order, he helped strengthen and expand the community while also serving as a papal emissary, peacemaker, and missionary during times of political and religious conflict. Whether preaching the Gospel, accompanying Christian armies as their chaplain, or counseling rulers, he placed his confidence not in his own abilities but in Christ. Despite his many responsibilities, he remained devoted to prayer and had a profound love for the Blessed Virgin Mary, often invoking her intercession throughout his ministry.

The life of St. Lawrence of Brindisi reveals how God can work through a heart deeply rooted in prayer and completely surrendered to Him. By placing his remarkable gifts at the service of Christ, he became a powerful witness to the Gospel. May we follow his example by offering our own talents to God with humility, trusting Him to use them for His glory.

St. Lawrence of Brindisi, pray for us!

LISTEN TO TODAY'S EPISODE OF ZEALE'S "MY DAILY SAINT" HERE