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Bernardo TolomeiSaint of the Roman Catholic Church, hermit, monk
Date of Birth: 10.05.1272
Country:  Italy |
Content:
- Saint Bernardo Tolomei: A Pious and Learned Man
- Knight and Professor
- From Law to Solitude
- The Olivetan Order
- The Olivetan Superior
- Devotion to the Virgin Mary
- Later Life and Legacy
- Sainthood
Saint Bernardo Tolomei: A Pious and Learned Man
Early Life and EducationBorn into a noble family in Tuscany, Bernardo Tolomei was raised by Dominican monks from the age of six. He received his primary education from them and, at his father's request, went on to study law at university.
Knight and Professor
During his university years, Tolomei was knighted by Emperor Rudolf I. He then became involved in a charitable brotherhood at a local hospital and, to avoid military service, began teaching law at the university.
From Law to Solitude
It was at the university that Tolomei met Andrea Piccolomini and Patrizio Patrizzi. Inspired by their spirituality, he abandoned his academic career and joined them in a life of seclusion.
The Olivetan Order
Living as a hermit, Tolomei took the name Bernardo in honor of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. In 1319, he traveled to Avignon to seek Pope John XXII's approval for a monastic community he had founded. In 1322, he became the second superior of the Olivetan Order, following Patrizio Patrizzi.
The Olivetan Superior
A Spiritual LeaderAs the superior of the Olivetans, Bernardo Tolomei guided the order through its early years. He established a rule of life based on spiritual contemplation, humility, and service.
Devotion to the Virgin Mary
Tolomei had a deep devotion to the Virgin Mary and encouraged his followers to honor her as their patroness. He is credited with composing several Marian hymns and prayers.
Later Life and Legacy
The Black DeathIn 1348, Tolomei succumbed to the Black Death while ministering to the sick. His death was a great loss to the Olivetan Order and the Church.
Sainthood
Tolomei was beatified in 1644 and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI in 2009. His feast day in the Catholic Church is celebrated on August 20th.
