Saint Bernardo Tolomei

Biography

Saint Bernardo Tolomei, also known as Bernard Ptolomei, Bernard Tolomeo, and Giovanni Tolomeo, was born on 10 May 1272 in Siena, Tuscany. From an early age, he changed his name to Bernard out of admiration for Bernard of Clairvaux, a prominent figure in the Catholic Church. Bernardo received his education from his Dominican uncle, who imparted a solid foundation in theology and spirituality. However, despite his deep desire for religious life, Bernardo's father prevented him from pursuing this path. Instead, he became a lawyer, theologian, soldier, and politician, serving in various government positions. Bernardo's life took a profound turn when he was struck blind. It is said that he subsequently regained his sight through the intervention of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a miraculous event that led him to renounce worldly life and dedicate himself to God. Once he freed himself from worldly entanglements, Bernardo faced accusations of heresy, which he soon managed to refute, clearing his name. He was then ordained as a priest and embarked on a new phase of his spiritual journey. Inspired by devotion to the Blessed Virgin, Bernardo founded the Benedictine Congregation of the Blessed Virgin of Monte Oliveto, also known as the Olivetan Congregation or Olivetans. As the founder of this congregation, Bernardo encouraged a life of prayer, contemplation, and monastic discipline. The Olivetans based their way of life on the Rule of Saint Benedict but also infused it with their unique charism, emphasizing Marian devotion. Bernardo and his followers lived in the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, devoting themselves to prayer and study. During a significant outbreak of the plague, Bernardo and his monks selflessly cared for those in need, demonstrating great compassion and risking their own lives to assist those affected by the disease. Remarkably, despite their exposure to the plague, none of the brothers fell ill. Saint Bernardo Tolomei passed away on 20 August 1348 in Siena, Italy, due to natural causes. His selflessness, devotion, and holiness left a lasting impact, as he was later beatified on 24 November 1664 by Pope Alexander VII. Recognizing his significant contributions to the Church, Pope Benedict XVI canonized him on 26 April 2009. Saint Bernardo Tolomei is particularly revered as the patron saint of the Olivetans, a religious order he founded. His life and teachings continue to inspire countless individuals to embrace a deep commitment to prayer, contemplation, and service to others, following in the footsteps of this remarkable Catholic saint. Although representations of Saint Bernardo Tolomei in art are rare, his legacy endures as a shining example of devoted service to God and humanity.