Blessed Manfredo Settala

Biography

Blessed Manfredo Settala, also known as Manfredo da Settala, was born in the latter 12th century in Milan, Italy, into an esteemed Milanese family. Little is known about his early life and education, but he eventually became a priest and served as the spiritual leader in several parishes within the diocese of Milan. These parishes included Cuasso, Cuasso al Piano, Cuasso al Monte, Brusimpiano, and Porto Ceresio Besano.

As a priest, Manfredo dedicated himself to the spiritual guidance and well-being of his flock. His reputation for holiness and piety quickly spread, attracting numerous people seeking his advice and intercession. One notable incident occurred in 1207 when a plague struck the region. Recognizing the devastating impact of the disease, Manfredo recommended that people embark on pilgrimages to the tombs of saints while fervently seeking their intercession. Miraculously, this advice proved successful, with the plague soon abating.

Amidst his pastoral duties, Manfredo also sought solitude. He became a hermit on Monte San Giorgio, a mountain in Italy, where he dedicated himself to a life of prayer and contemplation. Despite his seclusion, the saintly reputation of Manfredo continued to grow, garnering the attention of many who sought his guidance, blessing, and intercession.

Blessed Manfredo Settala passed away on 27 January 1217 in Riva San Vitaly, Lombardy, Italy, at the age of around 50. The news of his death spread throughout the region, accompanied by a remarkable phenomenon—the bells in the area spontaneously rang at the exact hour of his passing. Honoring his memory, Manfredo was laid to rest in Riva San Vitaly at the foot of Monte San Giorgio. In recognition of his status as a blessed individual and a miracle worker, his relics were enshrined in a marble sarcophagus in 1387. Over time, his remains were moved and re-enshrined multiple times, including in an urn at the high altar in 1633 and finally in Como, Italy in 1888.

Blessed Manfredo Settala's feast day is celebrated on 27 January, with additional festivities taking place the day before and the following Sunday. On the eve of his memorial, blessed bread is distributed to families in Riva San Vitaly, Italy. A procession of his relics is held on the Sunday following 27 January, allowing devotees to venerate his sacred relics and seek his intercession.

Though he has not been formally canonized, Blessed Manfredo Settala continues to be venerated as an inspirational and holy figure, particularly in the regions of Lombardy and Milan. His life serves as a testament to his unwavering faith, his dedication to the pastoral care of his communities, and his role as a bridge between heaven and earth through the miracles attributed to his intercession.