Seraphin of Montegranaro, Saint, b. at Montegranaro, 1540; d. at Ascoli, October 12, 1604. He was born of a poor, pious family, and in his youth was employed as a shepherd, an occupation which gave him much leisure for prayer and other pious exercises. Upon the death of his parents he was subjected to harsh and cruel treatment by his eldest brother. At the age of sixteen, Seraphin entered the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. He was distinguished from the first by his humility, mortification, and obedience as well as charity, which towards the poor knew no bounds. He had a special devotion to the Blessed Eucharist and to Our Lady. Seraphin was endowed with the gift of reading the secrets of hearts, and with that of miracles and prophecy. Although unlettered, his advice was sought by secular and ecclesiastical dignitaries, and was a fruitful source of virtue to souls. His tomb is in the convent at Ascoli. He was canonized by Clement XIII, July 16, 1767. His feast is celebrated in the Franciscan Order on October 12.
FERDINAND HECKMANN