Monday, July 15, 2024

Memorial of Saints (July 15)

Bonaventure (died 1274 A.D.): O.F.M. minister general for 17 years; Cardinal bishop of Albano; authored biblical commentaries and many ascetical and spiritual treatises, esp Journey of the Soul into God; known as the "seraphic Doctor."

There are two stories in relation to how he got the name Bonaventure. One story tells how Maria, his mother, pleaded to St. Francis to cure the dangerous illness that Bonaventure was stricken with as a baby. Another story tells how St. Francis cured him of a mortal illness when only 4 years old. Whichever was true, what was important is that both share the legend of St. Bonaventure being healed from his ailment, and St. Francis seeing a great future for the baby and exclaimed, "O buona venture" - O good fortune! O good encounter! That was how he got the name Bonaventure.

Learn more about St. Bonaventure's writings and spirituality

also on July 15:

  • James of Nisibis, bishop;
  • Barhadbesaba, martyr;
  • Donald;
  • Swithun, bishop;
  • Athanasius of Naples, bishop;
  • Edith of Polesworth;
  • Valdimir of Kiev;
  • David of Munktorp, bishop;
  • Pompilio Pirrotti

Donald (8th century A.D.) was a resident of Ogilvy in Scotland. He formed a religious group with his nine daughters after the death of his wife. They later entered a monastery at Abernethy.

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