Blessed Peter Of Zeliv

Biography

Blessed Peter of Zeliv, also known as Peter from Zeliv or Peter of Samostrzela, was a devout Premonstratensian canon who dedicated his life to serving God and his community. He was born in the late 14th century in Bohemia, which is now modern Czech Republic. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he entered the Zeliv Monastery in Bohemia, where he embraced the monastic lifestyle and devoted himself to prayer, study, and the care of souls.

Peter's commitment to his religious calling quickly became evident, and he gained the admiration and respect of his fellow brethren. Recognizing his virtues and leadership qualities, the canonry chose him as the abbot of their monastery in 1406. Peter humbly accepted this role and assumed his duties with great zeal and dedication.

As abbot, Peter worked tirelessly to guide his community on a path of spiritual growth and holiness. He emphasized the importance of living a life in accordance with the teachings of the Church and the principles of the Premonstratensian Order. Under his leadership, the monastery prospered both spiritually and materially, attracting many new vocations and earning a reputation for its piety and disciplined way of life.

However, Peter's tenure as abbot was not without its challenges. During his leadership, the Hussite movement, led by Jan Zizka, gained momentum in Bohemia. These radical Hussites rejected various aspects of the Catholic Church and posed a threat to the established religious orders. In December 1421, Zizka's troops marched through the area, spreading fear and destruction.

Faced with the imminent danger, Peter, along with his fellow monks and other local Catholics, fled from the Zeliv Monastery to the town of Nemecky Broad (modern Havlíckuv Brod, Czech Republic). They sought refuge and hoped to escape the wrath of the Hussite gangs. Unfortunately, Zizka's troops sacked the city shortly after their arrival and captured the Catholics who had sought shelter there.

Tragically, Peter and his companions were subjected to a brutal fate. They were unjustly accused, captured, and mercilessly executed for their unwavering loyalty to the Catholic Church. On January 10, 1422, Peter of Zeliv attained martyrdom, sacrificing his own life in defense of his faith and the principles he held dear.

Although there is limited information regarding his physical appearance or specific representations, the faithful remember and honor Peter of Zeliv for his unwavering dedication to his religious vows and for his ultimate sacrifice. He is recognized as a martyr and is venerated within the Premonstratensian Order, which commemorates him on January 10.

While Blessed Peter of Zeliv has not yet been officially beatified or canonized, his exemplary life of faith and martyrdom serve as an inspiration for all those who seek to live their lives in service to God and their fellow human beings.