Blessed Pietro Of Treia
Blessed
Feast Day: February 20
Death: February 19, 1304
Biography
Blessed Pietro of Treia, also known as Pietro degli Onesti, was born in 1214 into a wealthy noble family. From a young age, he displayed a deep devotion to the Archangel Gabriel and felt a strong calling to religious life. Inspired by his faith, Pietro renounced his worldly wealth and pursued a life of poverty, humility, and service to God.
Initially, Pietro joined the Celestine Order, known for its emphasis on solitude and contemplation. However, he later felt drawn to the Franciscan way of life and joined the Friars Minor. This decision allowed him to fulfill his desire for both active ministry and a contemplative prayer life.
Throughout his life, Pietro traveled extensively throughout the region of the Marches of Ancona in Italy. He stayed in various Franciscan monasteries, where he would divide his time between powerful and eloquent preaching and deep contemplative prayer. His sermons were known for their ability to move sinners to repentance and bring them back to the confessional and to God.
One of the most remarkable incidents in Pietro's life occurred at the convent in Forano, Italy. During his prayer, he received a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary placing the Child Jesus into the arms of his fellow Franciscan friar, Saint Conrad of Offida. Overwhelmed by the divine presence, Pietro went into ecstasies and experienced the grace of levitation, a phenomenon witnessed by those present.
Blessed Pietro of Treia died on 19th February 1304 at the Franciscan convent of Sirolo, Italy. He was known for his unwavering commitment to his vocation and his zealous efforts to bring souls closer to God. His sanctity and reputation for holiness were widely recognized, leading to his beatification on 11th September 1793 by Pope Pius VI.
Pietro's feast day is celebrated on 20th February, recognizing his devotion to the Archangel Gabriel and his exemplary life of faith and service. His life serves as an inspiration for all those seeking to follow Christ's teachings with complete surrender and selflessness.