Blessed Archangelus Piacentini

Biography

Blessed Archangelus Piacentini, also known as Arcangelo Placenza, was born into a noble family in Calatafimi, Sicily, Italy around the year 1390. From a young age, he exhibited a quiet and pious disposition, which led him to pursue a life of solitude and prayer. At a certain point, Arcangelus decided to live as a hermit and found refuge in a cave near the Church of Santa Maria dei Giubino in Sicily.

Arcangelus's holiness and reputation as a spiritual guide soon attracted a following of aspiring students seeking his guidance. In order to find solitude once again, he moved to Alcamo, Sicily, hoping to distance himself from the constant stream of visitors. However, even in his new location, his reputation continued to grow, and he was approached to assist in the restoration of shelters for the poor in the area.

With his dedication and help, the broken-down shelters were successfully restored, serving as a testament to his commitment to the marginalized and less fortunate. Having completed this task, Arcangelus returned to his hermitage, once again seeking a life of prayer and solitude.

However, Pope Martin V, who was actively working to restore papal authority, issued a decree requiring all hermits in Sicily to join approved religious orders. In compliance with this decree, Arcangelus made the decision to join the Franciscans in Palermo, Sicily. He received the habit from Blessed Matthew of Girgenti, a fellow Franciscan.

Now a priest, Arcangelus was assigned to establish a new Franciscan house in his previous home of Alcamo. He utilized the structures he had previously helped restore for the benefit of the new community. Throughout his life, he exemplified a strong commitment to leading by example, guiding both his fellow friars and lay individuals in their spiritual journeys.

Notably, Arcangelus supported the Franciscans across Sicily and declined the bishopric in Alcamo when offered to him. Instead, he devoted his remaining days to assisting and aiding Blessed Matthew, despite his own declining health.

Blessed Archangelus Piacentini passed away on August 10, 1460, in Alcamo, Sicily, from natural causes. His memory and reputation for holiness have endured through the centuries, and on September 9, 1836, Pope Gregory XVI beatified him, confirming the cultus or local veneration that had grown around him.

As a faithful servant of God, Blessed Archangelus Piacentini continues to inspire and intercede for those seeking a deeper connection with their faith. His feast days are commemorated on August 10 and, according to some calendars, also on April 10. His life of humility, sincere devotion, and compassionate service to others serve as an example to all who aspire to live out their Catholic faith.