No image available
Feast Day: November 12
Blessed Giovanni Cini Della Pace, also known as Giovanni the Soldier, Giovanni Soldato, Giovanni Stipendario, Giovanni della Pace, Giovanni de Porta pacis, Giovanni Cini, and John, was born around 1270 in Pisa, Italy. He led a life filled with experiences that transformed him from a wild and impulsive soldier to a devoted servant of God.
In his early years, Giovanni served as a soldier in the army of the Republic of Pisa. Known for his unruly nature, he found himself imprisoned after participating in the attack on Archbishop Teodorico Ranieri of Pisa on 8 October 1296. However, it was during his time in prison that Giovanni underwent a profound conversion experience. Touched by God's grace, he made a decision to change his ways and devote his life to penance.
Upon his release, Giovanni became a Franciscan tertiary and dedicated himself to a life of penitence and service to the poor. In 1305, he established the Pious House of Mercy, a charitable organization focused on helping the most destitute individuals in society. Giovanni's compassion for those experiencing extreme poverty led him to develop a unique approach. Under the cover of darkness, he and his companions would discreetly distribute food and alms to those who were too ashamed to seek help openly.
Later, seeking a more contemplative way of life, Giovanni became a hermit at the Porta della Paca in Pisa. His reputation for holiness and piety attracted numerous young men who wanted to follow his spiritual guidance. Organizing them into a congregation, he formed the Fraticelli or Franciscan Tertiary Hermits. Although this congregation has since become extinct, its existence testifies to Giovanni's profound impact on those who sought his wisdom and example.
Blessed Giovanni Cini Della Pace spent his final years living in a walled cell near the Porta della Paca in Pisa. He dedicated himself to spiritual pursuits and regularly received Holy Communion and water, while also providing spiritual advice and counsel to those who sought him out. He died around 1335 in his hermit's cell by the church of Santa Maria della Sambuca in Pisa of natural causes.
After his death, Blessed Giovanni was buried in a tomb within the Monumental Cemetery in Pisa. However, in 1856, his relics were transferred to the Franciscan Conventual church in Pisa. On 10 September 1857, Pope Pius IX beatified him, confirming his cultus (popular veneration).
Blessed Giovanni Cini Della Pace's life stands as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the ability to turn one's life around through God's grace. His commitment to serving the poor and leading others on the path of spiritual growth continues to inspire and guide believers today.