Blessed Raymond Of Toulouse

Biography

Blessed Giorgio of Lauria, also known as George, was born in Lauria, Potenza, Italy. He was the son of Admiral Don Ruggero and cousin of Blessed Raymond of Toulouse. Despite his familial ties to the Church, Giorgio initially resisted the call to religious life.

In his youth, Giorgio vehemently opposed his cousin Raymond's decision to enter the convent of Barcelona, Spain, and even went as far as threatening to physically harm him if he proceeded with taking the habit. However, it was in the midst of this disagreement that Giorgio felt a profound calling from God himself to embrace the religious life.

Prompted by this divine invitation, Giorgio chose to follow in the footsteps of his cousin Raymond and joined the Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mercy, commonly known as the Mercedarians. From the moment he entered the order, Giorgio dedicated himself wholeheartedly to God and the religious life. His transformation from an opponent of religious vocation to a model monk became an inspiration and a testament to the transformative power of faith.

Throughout his life as a Mercedarian, Giorgio displayed unwavering devotion to his religious duties and fervent compassion for those suffering under the yoke of captivity. The Mercedarian Order had a special mission to ransom Christian slaves held by non-believers, and as part of this mission, Giorgio dedicated himself to the rescue and liberation of these captives.

Giorgio's unwavering commitment to his religious calling and his compassionate efforts in the service of others earned him great respect and admiration within the order. He became known for his exemplary virtues, including humility, selflessness, and a deep love for God and his fellow human beings. His dedication and piety served as an inspiration for his brother monks.

Blessed Giorgio of Lauria passed away in 1339 at the convent of Santa Maria of El Puig, Spain, dying of natural causes. Although details of his beatification and veneration are not provided in the given information, Giorgio's life and virtues undoubtedly make him deserving of the title "blessed."

Today, Blessed Giorgio of Lauria serves as a reminder of the transformative power of God's grace and the call to embrace one's true vocation, even in the face of initial resistance. His story stands as an inspiration to all those who may have struggled to discern their path and highlights the importance of wholeheartedly dedicating oneself to a life of faith, service, and love.