Born
in Brindisi in Italy and christened Julius Caesar, the future saint’s
father was Guglielmo Rossi, and his mother Elisabetta Massella, both
excellent Christians.
His parents entrusted the boy’s education
to the Conventuals of Brindisi where he showed early signs of a
shimmering intelligence and a gift for oratory.
When twelve, his
father died, and he pursued his studies in Venice with the Clerics of
St. Mark, under the supervision of an uncle. In 1575 he was received
into the Capuchin Order and was given the name of Lorenzo. Once
professed, Brother Lorenzo studied philosophy and theology at the
University of Padua.
Lawrence had a prodigious memory, and
mastered most of the European languages and Semitic tongues. It is also
said that he knew the entire original text of the Bible, a feat deemed
miraculous. He is also renowned for his complete refutation of the
doctrines of Martin Luther, as well as his work in defense of the
Immaculate Conception of Mary of whom he was an ardent devotee, and in
whose name he worked all his miracles.
In his lifetime he filled all the posts of his order. As a great
preacher, he was invited to preach all over Europe. Always seeking to
move hearts, he adapted his preaching to his audience with enormous
success. The sermons he left fill no less than eight volumes. Because of
his knowledge of Hebrew, Pope Clement VIII assigned him to the
instructions of the Jews, and due to his knowledge of the language, and
powerful reasoning combined with his great kindliness, brought many into
the Faith.
He founded houses in Germany, Austria and Czechoslovakia, despite
many obstacles placed by heretics. As the fame of his sanctity preceded
him wherever he went, people flocked to hear his sermons.
In
1601 Lawrence served as chaplain for the army of Rudolph II, the Holy
Roman Emperor. In this capacity he was present at the battle of
Albe-Royal against the Ottoman Turk’s force of 80,000, while the
Christian army had 18,000. Prior to the battle, hesitating at these
odds, the leaders sought the holy chaplain’s advice. The saint took full
responsibility for the outcome, and in a glowing speech communicated to
them his own confidence. Aged and enfeebled, he mounted a horse, and,
crucifix in hand, led the charge. The Turks were defeated, but
regrouping, attacked again a few days later. Again the chaplain led the
attack to complete victory.
Lawrence died in a mission in Lisbon on July 22, 1619, as he had predicted.
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