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Feast Day: June 24
Blessed William of Dongelberg, also known as William of Villers or Guglielmo, was a Cistercian monk who lived in the 13th century at the abbey of Villers in Villers-la-Ville, Wallonia, which is now part of modern-day Belgium. He is fondly remembered for his profound humility and deep devotion to praying the divine office.
Born in Dongelberg, Wallonia, Blessed William grew up in a devout Catholic family. At a young age, he felt a calling to dedicate his life to God and entered the Cistercian order. The Cistercians, known for their strict adherence to the Rule of St. Benedict, emphasized a life of simplicity, prayer, and contemplation.
Blessed William embraced this way of life wholeheartedly, immersing himself in the liturgical prayers and spiritual practices of the Cistercian tradition. He found solace and joy in the recitation of the divine office, a structured series of prayers and psalms performed by the monastic community throughout the day and night. His steadfast commitment to this prayer life became a source of inspiration for his fellow monks.
In addition to his dedication to prayer, Blessed William exemplified extraordinary humility. He saw himself as a humble servant of God and his brethren, never seeking recognition or praise for his actions. His genuine humility was evident in his interactions with others, as well as in his daily tasks and duties. Blessed William considered himself unworthy of any attention or special treatment, always prioritizing the needs of others above his own.
Blessed William's holy example and spiritual leadership attracted many to the Cistercian way of life. He acted as a mentor and guide to younger monks, sharing his wisdom and encouraging them in their own spiritual journeys. His gentle and humble nature made him approachable, and many sought his counsel and spiritual guidance.
Although little is known about the specific details of Blessed William's life and the events surrounding his beatification, his sanctity and reputation for holiness were widely recognized. In 1599, Pope Clement VII permitted an indulgence in connection with the relics of Blessed William, signifying the confirmation of his cultus or popular devotion. This recognition by the Church highlights the impact Blessed William had on the faithful and acknowledges his intercession and spiritual influence through the veneration of his relics.
Blessed William of Dongelberg, through his humility and love for prayer, left an enduring legacy of devotion and piety. His exemplary life serves as an inspiration for all Catholics, reminding them of the importance of humility, prayer, and selfless service to others. On his feast day, June 24th, the Cistercian Menology honors his memory and invites believers to seek his intercession and follow his footsteps on the path towards holiness.