Blessed Paolo Bigoni

Biography

Blessed Paolo Bigoni, also known as Cozzando Bigoni or Paul, was a renowned figure in the Catholic Church during the 15th century. He was born in either 1400 or 1409 in Chiari, Brescia, Italy as Cozzando. At the age of 30, he joined the Servants of Mary at the convent of Sant Alessandro in Brescia, where he took the name Paolo.

Paolo's intellectual pursuits led him to study theology both at the Sant Alessandro convent and in Paris, France. In 1450, he achieved the status of Doctor in theology, highlighting his dedication to deepening his understanding of the faith. Following his ordainment as a priest, Paolo quickly made a name for himself as a captivating and influential preacher.

In 1454, Paolo was appointed Prior of the Sant Alessandro convent, further cementing his leadership role within the Servants of Mary. His commitment and exemplary service were recognized in 1457 when he was appointed Vicar-general of the Servites, a position that bestowed upon him significant responsibilities in guiding and overseeing this religious order.

In 1476, Paolo's influential presence led to his appointment as Vicar-general of the Congregation of the Osservanza. This role expanded his work beyond the Servants of Mary into the wider context of religious reform. As a dedicated servant of the Church, he was assigned by Pope Sixtus IV to lead the reform efforts in several houses associated with the Servants of Mary.

In his endeavor to rekindle a more active spirituality within the Servants of Mary, Paolo collaborated closely with other blessed individuals who shared his vision. Blessed Tommaso Vitali, Blessed Bartolomeo Pinzocaro, and Blessed Bonaventura Tornielli joined Paolo in the pursuit of reviving the core values of the Servites.

Despite his significant impact on the Church, Paolo humbly chose to retire from the public stage rather than pursue a position as the bishop of Pesaro, Italy, when he was considered for this role. Deciding to dedicate the remaining years of his life to solitude and spiritual contemplation, he became a hermit on Monte Granaro.

Blessed Paolo Bigoni's devotion to the Catholic Church and his tireless efforts towards spiritual reform left an everlasting mark on the Servants of Mary and the Congregation of the Osservanza. He passed away in either 1503 or 1510 in Pesaro, Italy, at an advanced age, leaving behind a legacy of profound faith and a steadfast commitment to the service of God.

The Church has recognized Paolo's sanctity, although specific details about his veneration, beatification, and canonization remain unavailable at this time. His feast day is celebrated on 21 December in the diocese of Pesaro, Italy.