St. Jerome Emiliani
Feast Day: February 8
“Place your trust in God alone and not in man.” – St. Jerome Emiliani
St. Jerome Emiliani is honored as the patron saint of orphans and abandoned children, known for his deep compassion, service to the poor, and founding of a religious community dedicated to caring for those in need. His feast day, celebrated on February 8, commemorates his life of charity, humility, and trust in God.
A Soldier Transformed by Grace
Jerome Emiliani was born in 1486 in Venice, Italy, into a noble family. As a young man, he pursued a military career and served as a soldier in the Venetian army. During a battle, he was captured and imprisoned, and it was there, in chains, that he experienced a profound conversion. Praying fervently to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he credited her intercession for his miraculous escape.
Upon returning home, Jerome left military life behind and dedicated himself entirely to serving the poor and the suffering.
Father to Orphans and the Poor
A terrible plague and famine devastated Northern Italy in the early 1500s, leaving many children orphaned and homeless. Jerome devoted himself to caring for these children, providing them with food, shelter, education, and love. His compassion extended to widows, the sick, and the poor, whom he served with tireless generosity.
He sold all his possessions and used the funds to support his charitable works.
Founder of the Somaschi Fathers
In 1532, Jerome founded a religious congregation known as the Clerks Regular of Somasca, or the Somaschi Fathers, named after the town of Somasca where they began. The order was dedicated to the care of orphans, the education of youth, and the service of the poor.
Jerome emphasized absolute trust in Divine Providence, teaching his companions to rely solely on God’s grace in their work.
A Life Offered in Service
In 1537, while caring for the sick during a plague outbreak, Jerome contracted the disease himself and died while serving those in need. His life was a profound witness to Christian charity lived to the fullest.
Patron of Orphans and Abandoned Children
St. Jerome Emiliani was canonized in 1767 and is the patron saint of orphans, abandoned children, and those who work with them. His legacy continues through the work of the Somaschi Fathers and all those committed to the care of the vulnerable.
A Witness of Charity and Trust in God
St. Jerome Emiliani’s life reminds the faithful that the measure of love is found in service, especially to those most in need. His example of trusting completely in God and loving the poor reflects the heart of the Gospel.
St. Jerome Emiliani, pray for us!
