Blessed Jakov Varingez

Biography

Blessed Jakov Varingez, also known as Giacomo de Bitetto, Giacomo of Bitetto, Giacomo Varingez, Giacomo Veringuez, Jacobo de Iádere Varinguer, James of Bitecto, James of Bitetto, James of Dalmatia, James of Illyricum, James of Sclavonia, James of Zara, James the Illyrian, and James the Slav, was born around 1400 in the city of Zadar, located in the region of Zadarska, Croatia.

Jakov's parents, Leonardo and Beatrice Varingez, raised him in a time of great religious and political turmoil. With the threat of Turkish invaders looming over the region, his family made the difficult decision to relocate to Bari, Italy, seeking safety and stability. It was in Bari that Jakov felt a deep calling to dedicate his life to God, and he took his first steps towards the religious life by joining the Order of Friars Minor at the friary of Bitetto, Italy.

Throughout the majority of his life, Jakov resided in Bitetto, faithfully serving in various roles within the friary. He embraced a life of humility and selflessness, taking on tasks such as cooking, begging for alms, tending to the gardens, serving as a porter, and assisting as a sacristan. Despite his many responsibilities, Jakov was known for his unwavering commitment to prayer and his deep spiritual devotion.

Jakov's life was marked by extraordinary mystical experiences. He was often observed in a state of ecstasy, being transported into union with God. Witnesses also reported witnessing him levitating during prayer, a phenomenon that further affirmed his profound sanctity. Moreover, Jakov had a reputation as a miracle worker, with numerous accounts of healings and other miraculous interventions attributed to his intercession.

As he grew older, Jakov's compassion led him to reach out to those suffering from the devastating plague of 1482. Despite the inherent danger of caring for the afflicted, he fearlessly offered his assistance and comfort to the victims, reflecting the selflessness and love characteristic of his life.

On April 27, 1496, Jakov passed away in Bitetto, Italy, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of holiness and devotion. Significantly, about 20 years after his burial, the incorruptibility of his body became evident, and certain parts of his remains are said to remain incorrupt to this day.

Blessed Jakov Varingez's virtues and holy life were acknowledged by the Church. He was beatified on December 29, 1700, by Pope Clement XI, who confirmed his cultus (popular veneration). Subsequently, on December 19, 2009, Pope Benedict XVI recognized Jakov's heroic virtues, further affirming his sanctity and providing a source of inspiration for the faithful.

Blessed Jakov Varingez, the humble cook, alms-beggar, gardener, porter, and sacristan, continues to be revered as a model of deep prayer, selfless service, and profound mystical union with God. His life and intercession remind us of the power of faith, devotion, and charity in transforming lives and bringing solace and healing to those in need.