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Feast Day: December 28
Blessed Johannes Riedgasser, also known as Johannes of Obermarchtal, was a devout member of the Premonstratensians, a religious order of canons regular founded by St. Norbert of Xanten in the early 12th century. Born in the 16th century in Germany, little is known about his early life and upbringing.
Johannes Riedgasser felt a deep calling to religious life and joined the Premonstratensian monastery in Obermarchtal, located in the region of Swabia, modern Germany. Here, he dedicated himself to a life of prayer, study, and service to God, following the rule and discipline of the Order. His commitment and piety quickly caught the attention of his superiors, and he was ordained as a priest, becoming a valuable member of the monastic community.
As a spiritual student, Johannes Riedgasser was fortunate to have the guidance and mentorship of Blessed Ulkirk, an esteemed member of the Premonstratensian Order. Inspired by his spiritual director, Johannes Riedgasser deepened his understanding of the faith and sought to emulate the virtues and holiness of his blessed confidant.
His dedication to the principles of the Premonstratensian Order did not go unnoticed, and in 1591, Johannes was appointed as the abbot of the monastery in Obermarchtal. In this role, he demonstrated exemplary leadership skills, ensuring that the monks lived in accordance with the principles of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Johannes' devotion to the rule of the Order was unwavering, and his leadership saw the monastery thrive spiritually and socially.
Recognizing his commitment to the ideals and governance of the Order, Johannes Riedgasser was entrusted with an additional responsibility in the form of being a visitor to other monasteries within the region. As a visitor, he would travel to different houses of the Premonstratensians, ensuring that they adhered to the prescribed rules, offering guidance and support when necessary. Johannes' visits to other monasteries became renowned for his wisdom, compassion, and ability to inspire the religious communities to deepen their commitment to God.
In the twilight years of his life, Blessed Johannes Riedgasser received a heavenly vision of his spiritual guide, Blessed Ulkirk. This mystical encounter further fortified his faith and reaffirmed his dedication to the spiritual teachings he had received. The vision served as a profound source of consolation and encouragement for Johannes, especially during moments of doubt or difficulty.
Blessed Johannes Riedgasser died in 1600 from natural causes, leaving behind a lasting legacy of holiness and devotion. Although specific details about his beatification and official recognition as a saint are currently unavailable, his life and example are remembered and commemorated on the annual feast day of December 28th.
Today, Blessed Johannes Riedgasser is honored as a model of fidelity to the religious life, an exemplar of the Premonstratensian charism, and a source of inspiration for those who aspire to live lives of prayer, discipline, and service to God. His unwavering commitment to the principles of his religious order and his compassionate assistance to other communities continue to inspire countless individuals seeking to grow closer to God and live out their vocations faithfully.