Blessed Pietro Tecelano

Biography

Blessed Pietro Tecelano, also known as Pietro Pettinaio, Pietro Tecellanus, Peter, or Pier, was born around the year 1200 in Campi, Tuscany, Italy. As a child, Pietro moved with his family to Siena, where he would spend most of his life.

As a young man, Pietro married and worked as a comb-maker. However, tragedy struck when his wife passed away, leaving him a widower. Seeking solace and spiritual fulfillment, Pietro joined the Franciscan Order as a tertiary and dedicated himself to a life of service.

Pietro became a nurse in a Franciscan hospital and continued making combs as a means to support himself. He embraced a simple, solitary existence, living frugally and giving any excess monies he earned to the Franciscans. Pietro's devoutness was evident as he spent his nights in prayer and meditation.

Seeking to deepen his spiritual journey, Pietro moved from a layman's house to a cell in the monastery that administered the hospital. He recognized his own predisposition towards talkativeness and sought to overcome it by practicing silence. Through his efforts, Pietro gradually developed a reputation as a mystic and miracle worker.

Throughout his life, Pietro embarked on pilgrimages to several holy sites in various Italian cities, further enriching his spiritual experiences and deepening his connection with God. He became a sought-after advisor to both priests and laypeople due to his wisdom and holiness.

Notably, Pietro's character apparently served as the inspiration for Pier the comb-seller in Dante Alighieri's Purgatorio, underscoring his significance and impact in contemporary culture.

Pietro Tecelano passed away in early December 1289 in Siena, Italy, from natural causes. He was laid to rest at the Franciscan church in Siena, where his grave quickly became a destination for pilgrims seeking his intercession and witnessing miracles. In 1326, a shrine was built over his grave, and an annual local feast began in 1329 to honor him.

Sadly, the shrine was destroyed by fire in 1655. However, the remaining relics of Blessed Pietro Tecelano were entrusted to the care of the Poor Clare nuns of Siena, who faithfully preserved them.

Recognizing his holiness and the impact he had on the faithful, Pope Pius VII beatified Pietro Tecelano on August 18, 1802, officially confirming his cultus. While information regarding his veneration is not available, it is likely that his feast days are celebrated on December 4th, with some calendars also including December 10th, November 4th, November 11th, and March 16th.

Blessed Pietro Tecelano's life serves as a testament to his devotion to God, his simplicity, and his love for others through his tireless service and intercession, making him an inspiration for countless people throughout the centuries.