Blessed John Saziari

Biography

Blessed John Saziari, also known as Joannes Saziari or Giovanni Saziari, was a celibate layman farmer and Franciscan tertiary. He was born circa 1327 in the town of Cagli, Italy. Growing up, John developed a deep devotion to the Franciscan Order and dedicated himself to a life of piety and service to God.

John Saziari's love for the Franciscan spirituality led him to join the Third Order of Saint Francis, becoming a Franciscan tertiary. This commitment allowed him to maintain his lay status while living a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience associated with the Order. John diligently followed the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, seeking spiritual perfection through a simple and humble existence.

Although he was a farmer by trade, John devoted his spare time to serving the poor and the sick, following the example set by St. Francis. His reputation for charity and compassion spread throughout the community, as he tirelessly dedicated himself to assisting those in need. Despite his humble occupation, John viewed his farming work as an opportunity to labor for the glory of God and to support his endeavors in helping others.

Blessed John Saziari's life was marked by his unwavering faith and commitment to prayer. He was known for his deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, often seeking her intercession in all aspects of his life. His love for the Blessed Virgin led him to contribute towards the veneration of Our Lady of the Snows in the church of San Francsesco in Cagli, Italy. After his death, his relics were placed in a wooden urn on the altar dedicated to Our Lady of the Snows, where they remain venerated to this day.

Blessed John Saziari passed away on April 21, 1371, in Cagli, Pesaro-Urbino, Italy. He died peacefully of natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service and devotion to God. Centuries later, on December 9, 1980, Pope John Paul II beatified him, officially recognizing his life of holiness and confirming the cultus (the public veneration) of Blessed John Saziari.

Today, Blessed John Saziari serves as a role model for laypeople seeking to live a life of faith and discipleship within the secular world. His example reminds us of the importance of simplicity, charity, and devotion to God in every aspect of our lives. We invoke his intercession to help us grow in faith and to inspire us to follow Christ's teachings with humility and love.