Saint Seraphin of Montegranaro

Seraphin De Nicola, baptized Felix, was born in Montegranaro, Italy, in 1540. His father and brother were masons but Felix was not strong or skilled, so he was sent to work as a shepherd, a job he enjoyed because it allowed him to be by himself and pray. When his father died, his older brother needed Felix to help with the business. He was given tasks he could not complete and his ill-tempered brother would beat him and belittle him. A friend urged him to accept his more spiritual side and suggested he speak with the Capuchins. He joined the Capuchins as a lay brother when he was eighteen. He served in various friaries as porter and quaestor. His life was noted for its unaffected simplicity, close union with Christ, and great love for the poor and for sinners. He died at Ascoli in 1604.

He was canonized by Pope Clement XIII on June 16, 1767.