Blessed James Of Luino

Biography

Blessed James of Luino, also known as James de Leuteri or James of Eleuterii, was born around the year 1416 in Luino, Italy. He came from a distinguished Italian noble family and spent the early years of his life managing his family's business affairs. However, at the age of 40, he felt a strong calling to dedicate himself to a life of prayer and service to God.

In response to this call, James decided to join the Carmelite order as a lay brother. He entered the Abbey of Melegnano, situated in Italy, where he would embark on his spiritual journey. Alongside two other lay brothers, James returned to his family's estates in Luino in the year 1475 to fulfill a higher purpose. There, they began the construction of a chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel - a testament to their devotion to the Blessed Virgin.

Throughout his time in Luino, Blessed James steadfastly served the local community both spiritually and physically. He became renowned for his exceptional gift of healing through prayer and even for turning stones into bread, a miraculous manifestation of divine intervention. Countless individuals sought his assistance and witnessed the transformative power of his intercession.

Blessed James of Luino passed away in his hometown of Luino in the year 1477 due to natural causes. Witnesses recount a remarkable occurrence during his final moments: as he took his last breath, candles in the room spontaneously ignited, shedding light on the profound holiness of his soul. He was laid to rest in the church of Saint Peter in Luino, where his memory was honored and his relics venerated.

In 1578, his relics were transferred to a newly constructed parish church in Luino, ensuring their continued veneration by the faithful. However, it was not until 1834 that his grave was rediscovered, prompting a relocation of his relics to the chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary that he had played a significant role in constructing. This chapel became a sacred place of pilgrimage, drawing devotees seeking his intercession and praying for miracles.

While the official beatification of Blessed James of Luino has not been recorded, the faithful continue to revere him as a holy man, recognizing his profound spirituality and the extraordinary wonders associated with his life. His feast day is celebrated on February 16th each year, serving as a commemoration of his inspiring faith and unwavering dedication to God and his fellow humans.