CrucisSt. Benedict the Moor
St. Benedict the Moor was born in 1526 near Messina in Sicily, the son of African slaves, though he himself was born free, and died on 4 April 1589 at Palermo. Working as a poor laborer and enduring insults over his African descent with remarkable patience, he was so admired for his meekness that he was invited to join a group of Franciscan hermits, whose community he eventually led.
When that group was dissolved, he became a lay brother of the Friars Minor at Palermo, serving as cook and, despite being unable to read, being chosen superior of the friary because of his evident holiness and wisdom. He was sought out by great numbers of people for counsel and healing, yet remained humble and hidden, returning gladly to the kitchen. Renowned across Sicily for his sanctity, miracles, and charity to the poor, he was canonized in 1807 and is honored as a patron of African missions and of people of African descent.
Selected quotes
“Feed the poor at the kitchen door, and you feed the Lord who waits there in disguise.”
“Seek the lowest place gladly, for there the proud will not crowd you out of Christ's company.”
“Hidden service done for love is sweeter to God than the loudest praise of men.”