Blessed James Oldo

Biography

Blessed James Oldo, also known as James of Oldo, James D’Oldo, James of Lodi, James Oldi, Jakob, Jacopo, or Giacomo, was born in 1364 in Lodi, Italy. He was the son of Marchese and Fiordonina Oldo. Unfortunately, James lost his father at a young age, leaving him a substantial inheritance that led to a life of indulgence and wealth.

In his early adulthood, James married Catharine Bocconi, a woman who shared his self-indulgent lifestyle. They were blessed with three children. However, the death of a close friend to a disease brought James face to face with his own mortality, leading to a significant transformation in his character.

One day, a traveling reproduction of the Holy Sepulchre arrived in Lodi, and in a somewhat jesting manner, James laid down on it as an attempt to compare his height to that of Christ's. It was during this act that he experienced a sudden and profound conversion.

Following his conversion, James dedicated himself to a life of piety and self-sacrifice. He became a Franciscan tertiary and embraced a humble existence. James's commitment to his newfound faith was met with opposition from both his mother and wife, who initially opposed his change of lifestyle. However, his mother had a vision of standing before the judgement seat of God, which led both women to also become Franciscan tertiaries.

Together, James, his mother, and his wife transformed their mansion into a center for prayer, dedicating themselves to works of charity. They spent their later years tending to the sick and aiding prisoners who were captured during the civil war that devastated Lodi.

Following the death of his wife, James answered a calling to the priesthood in 1397. However, his acts of penance became so severe that his bishop had to intervene and order him to eat at least three times a week to preserve his health.

James was not only known for his dedication to a life of penance and prayer but also for his powerful preaching. His words and exemplary life inspired many to follow in his footsteps and join religious life. He possessed the gift of prophecy, foretelling future wars and even predicting his own death.

On April 18, 1404, James Oldo passed away, leaving behind a legacy of holiness and devotion. He was buried in the church of Saint Julian, which he and his wife had supported financially. When his body was moved seven years after his death, it was found to be incorrupt, a sign of his sanctity. In 1580, his remains were re-interred in the nearby Church of Sant’Egidio. Finally, in 1789, his body was laid to rest in the Cathedral of Lodi.

Blessed James Oldo was beatified on March 26, 1934, by Pope Pius XI, who confirmed the veneration of this holy man. Today, he is remembered for his profound conversion, acts of penance, and his dedication to caring for the sick and imprisoned. His life serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith and the importance of selfless service to others.