Blessed Gabriel Ferretti

Biography

Blessed Gabriel Ferretti, also known as Gabriel of Ancona, was born in 1385 in Ancona, Italy. He belonged to the Italian nobility and was the eldest son of Count Liverotto of Ferretti and Lady Alvisia. Despite his privileged background, at the age of 18, Gabriel made the courageous decision to leave his worldly position behind and join the Franciscan Friars Minor at the convent of San Francesco in Ancona.

During his time as a friar, Gabriel experienced profound spiritual encounters, including visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He possessed the gift of healing and was known for performing miraculous healings through his fervent prayers. Gabriel was ordained a priest and entrusted with various responsibilities within the Franciscan Order.

In 1425, Gabriel was appointed as the Superior of the convent in Ancona, where he served with great dedication and holiness. In 1434, he was appointed as the Franciscan provincial-vicar of Piceno in the Marches of Ancona, Italy. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly in establishing new Franciscan convents in San Severino Marche, Ascoli Piceno, and Osimo.

Blessed Gabriel had a close friendship with Saint James of the Marches, who recognized his virtues and desired to collaborate with him in evangelizing the region of modern Bosnia in 1438. However, the people of Ancona successfully persuaded Pope Eugene IV to instruct Gabriel to remain in his present assignment in Ancona.

After serving as provincial-vicar, Gabriel returned to his home convent and became its superior from 1449 to 1452. Following his term as superior, he chose to retire and live the remainder of his life as a humble and prayerful friar.

Blessed Gabriel Ferretti passed away on 12 November 1456 in Ancona, Italy, due to natural causes. He was eulogized by his close friend, Saint James of the Marches. Initially buried in the church of the San Francesco convent in Ancona, in 1489 his remains were re-interred in a sepulcher built near the church altar by his sister, Paolina Ferretti.

Numerous miracles were reported at Gabriel's tomb, signifying the graces and intercessory power he obtained from God. However, on 14 May 1862, the church was converted into a military hospital, leading to his reburial in the crypt of the cathedral of Ancona. Finally, on 30 January 1943, his relics were re-enshrined in the church of Saint John the Baptist in Ancona, where he continues to be venerated.

Blessed Gabriel Ferretti's extraordinary faith, unwavering dedication to the Franciscan Order, and his profound spiritual encounters make him a true inspiration for all believers. His beatification took place on 19 September 1753, by Pope Benedict XIV, who recognized his heroic virtues and confirmed his cultus, further inviting the faithful to seek his intercession and emulate his holiness.