Saint Bernard of Corleone

Biography

Saint Bernard of Corleone, also known as Bernardo de Corleone, was born Filippo Latino on 6 February 1605 in Corleone, Palermo, Sicily. He was a shoemaker by trade and gained a reputation as the greatest swordsman and duelist in all of Sicily during his time. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he mortally wounded a man named Canino in a duel. Following the incident, Saint Bernard sought sanctuary from the law in the church of the Capuchin Friars Minor in Palermo. While hiding there, he had a profound conversion experience and was deeply touched by God's grace. Inspired by his newfound faith, he decided to renounce his previous life as a swordsman and entered the Capuchin Order as a lay-brother in 1632. Taking the name Brother Bernardo, he dedicated the rest of his life to serving God and seeking repentance for his past actions. Saint Bernard was known for his extreme austerity and self-imposed penances. He embraced a life of severe self-discipline, fasting rigorously, and wearing a hair shirt as acts of penance and atonement for his earlier life. Despite the physical hardships he endured, he remained steadfast in his devotion to God and the pursuit of holiness. Throughout his life, Brother Bernardo showed a remarkable gift for healing animals through prayer. Countless testimonies attested to his ability to cure the illnesses and injuries of animals, and his reputation as a miracle worker grew among the people during his time. Saint Bernard of Corleone lived the remaining years of his life in Palermo, Sicily, dedicating himself to a life of prayer, penance, and service to others. He passed away on 12 January 1667, leaving behind a legacy of deep faith and humble devotion to God. In recognition of his exceptional holiness and virtuous life, Pope Clement XIII declared Saint Bernard of Corleone venerable on 2 February 1762. Later, on 15 May 1768, he was beatified by Pope Clement XIII. Finally, on 10 June 2001, Pope John Paul II canonized him as a saint, acknowledging his exemplary life as a true model of Christian virtue. Although Saint Bernard of Corleone does not have a specific patronage, his life serves as an inspiration for all those seeking conversion, redemption, and a life of holiness. His story reminds us of the transformative power of grace and the ability to turn one's life around through repentance and dedication to God.