Blessed Nicholas Politi

Biography

Blessed Nicholas Politi, also known as Nicolú Politi, was born in 1117 in Adrano (Aderno), Catania, Sicily, Italy. He was born into a noble family as the only child of aged parents. From a young age, Nicholas displayed a deep piety, developing a fervent devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and a profound contemplation of the Passion of Christ. His strong desire to dedicate his life to God became evident at an early stage.

At the age of 17, Nicholas found himself at a crossroads when he was arranged to be married. This pivotal moment sparked a crisis in his discernment of a vocation, leading him to make a life-altering decision. Fleeing from the wedding, Nicholas sought refuge as a lay monk at the Basilian monastery of Santa Maria Del Rogato. This monastery became a sanctuary where he deepened his spiritual life and sought guidance from the monastic community.

During his time at the monastery, Nicholas demonstrated a remarkable dedication not only to God but also to rigorous ascetic practices. Despite his intense devotion, he made a point to return to the monastery of Rogato every weekend to receive the sacraments of Confession and Holy Communion. This commitment nourished his spiritual journey and strengthened his resolve.

Blessed Nicholas Politi gained a reputation as a worker of miracles, with numerous extraordinary incidents associated with his life. From the time of his birth, there were accounts of miraculous events surrounding him. One such event involved a spring gushing forth from the ground where the water used to wash him was thrown. As a newborn, Nicholas began observing a self-imposed fast on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, a practice he continued throughout his life.

Even in his youth, Nicholas possessed incredible spiritual gifts. He was able to ward off wolves and heal both humans and animals through his fervent prayers and the sign of the cross. These extraordinary acts demonstrated his closeness to God and his ability to intercede on behalf of others.

When Nicholas decided to escape his arranged marriage and seek solitude as a hermit, an angel appeared to assist him in evading his family's guards. Throughout his journey to his chosen hermitage on Mount Calanna in Arcaria, Sicily, Nicholas was sustained by divine providence. An eagle provided him with food along the way, and he miraculously obtained water by striking a rock with his staff.

Upon reaching the cave that would become his home, Nicholas was greeted by an eagle perched at its entrance, which served as a sign that he had arrived at his intended destination. This connection with nature further emphasized Nicholas's contemplative and solitary lifestyle.

During his flight from his wedding, Nicholas encountered Satan in the form of a wealthy merchant. As the devil attempted to tempt him with worldly pleasures, Nicholas turned to prayer, seeking the strength to resist. Through his unwavering faith, Satan was ultimately defeated, and Nicholas persevered in his chosen path.

Blessed Nicholas Politi received a forewarning from an angel regarding his impending death, which allowed him to make proper preparations for his final journey. He made his way back to the Basilian monastery to receive his last Confession, final Holy Communion, and spend a final evening of prayer and connection with his fellow monks.

On the morning of August 17, 1167, at dawn, Blessed Nicholas Politi peacefully passed away in Arcaria, Sicily, Italy. His unwavering faith, deep spirituality, and commitment to a life consecrated to God have made him an inspiration to countless individuals throughout history.

While Nicholas Politi has not yet been officially canonized as a saint, his life and the numerous miracles attributed to him have led to his being revered as Blessed Nicholas Politi. His story serves as a testament to the power of faith, the importance of embracing one's vocation, and the transformative impact of a life dedicated to God and His people.