Blessed Balduino Of Rieti

Biography

Blessed Balduino of Rieti, also known as Baldovino, Baldwin, Baudoin, or Baudouin, was born into a pious noble family in Italy. He was the son of Berardo X, Count of Marsi, and his brother Rainaldo became the abbot of Montecassino Abbey and was later elevated to the rank of cardinal by Pope Innocent II in 1138.

Balduino's spiritual journey led him to become a Benedictine Cistercian monk at Clairvaux Abbey, where he devoted himself to the teachings and guidance of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. His unwavering commitment to his faith and dedication to the monastic life were evident from an early age.

In 1130, Balduino was appointed as the abbot of the San Matteo di Montecchio monastery, situated on the picturesque Lake Montecchio. He proved to be an exemplary abbot, leading his fellow monks by example and fostering a vibrant spiritual community.

Later, Balduino was further entrusted with the role of abbot at the Saint-Sauveur monastery in the diocese of Rieti, Italy. This responsibility allowed him to continue his mission of nurturing the spiritual growth of his fellow brethren and guiding them in their devotion to God.

Throughout his life, Balduino exemplified humility, compassion, and a deep love for God. He was known to be a wise and gentle leader, inspiring those around him through his words and actions. His unwavering faith and commitment to the monastic way of life were an inspiration to all who knew him.

Blessed Balduino's tireless efforts to spread the teachings of the Catholic Church continue to inspire countless individuals to this day. Although there is no specific representation associated with him, his legacy lives on through the numerous depictions of him found in artwork and reliquaries.

He is honored and venerated on various feast days, including 24 July by the Cistercians, 21 August in the city and diocese of Rieti (as recognized by the Bollandists), 15 July in the Menologium Cisterciense, and on other dates such as 2 August, 10 August, and 11 August in some calendars.

Blessed Balduino of Rieti passed away peacefully in 1140 from natural causes. He was laid to rest in the cathedral of Rieti, Italy, where his relics continue to be venerated. Some of his relics are housed in the altar of the "delle Grazie" chapel of the cathedral, while his skull is enshrined in a silver reliquary bust depicting his likeness, alongside other revered relics, at the high altar of the cathedral.

Recognizing his extraordinary holiness and virtuous life, Blessed Balduino was beatified by the Catholic Church. The Sacred Congregation of Rites approved an Office recounting his history in 1701, acknowledging his sanctity and inviting the faithful to seek his intercession and emulate his deep faith and devotion.

Blessed Balduino of Rieti stands as an inspiring figure in the Catholic Church, reminding believers of the transformative power of faith and the potential for holiness within each individual. His life serves as a beacon of light, guiding others on the path of righteousness and leading them closer to God.