March 27, 2003
Blessed Francis Fa` di Bruno
(1825-1888)
LIFE:
Francis, the last of 12 children, was born in northern Italy into an aristocratic
family. He lived at a particularly turbulent time in history, when anti-Catholic and
anti-papal sentiments were especially strong.
After being trained as a military officer, Francis was spotted by King Victor Emmanuel
II, who was impressed with the young man's character and learning. Invited by the king
to tutor his two young sons, Francis agreed and prepared himself with additional
studies. But with the role of the Church in education being a sticking point for many,
the king was forced to withdraw his offer to the openly Catholic Francis and, instead,
find a tutor more suitable to the secular state.
Francis soon left army life behind and pursued doctoral studies in Paris in
mathematics and astronomy; he also showed a special interest in religion and
asceticism. Despite his commitment to the scholarly life, Francis put much of his
energy into charitable activities. He founded the Society of St. Zita for maids and
domestic servants, later expanding it to include unmarried mothers, among others. He
helped establish hostels for the elderly and poor. He even oversaw the construction of
a church in Turin that was dedicated to the memory of Italian soldiers who had lost
their lives in the struggle over the unification of Italy.
Wishing to broaden and deepen his commitment to the poor, Francis, then well into
adulthood, studied for the priesthood. But first he had to obtain the support of Pope
Pius IX to counteract the opposition to his own archbishop's difficulty with late
vocations. Francis was ordained at the age of 51.
As a priest, he continued his good works, sharing his inheritance as well as his
energy. He established yet another hostel, this time for prostitutes. He died in Turin
on March 27, 1888, and was beatified 100 years later.
Comment:
It wasnt Francis lack of scholarly ability or deep-down goodness that almost kept
him from the priesthood, but his bishops distrust of late vocations. Until the
later part of the 20th century, most candidates for the priesthood entered the
seminary right out of grade school. Today no bishop would refuse a middle-aged
applicantespecially someone whose care for people in need is constant. Francis is a
holy reminder that Gods call to reassess our lifes direction can reach us at any
age.( American Catholic/ saints)
REFLECTION:
*** Faith believes ; hope prays; charity begs in
order to give to others .Humility of heart forms the prayer, confidence
speaks it , and perseverance triumphs over God himself**(Peter Julian
Eymard)
**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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