Saint Castora Gabrielli

Biography

Saint Castora Gabrielli, also known as Saint Castora of Umbria, was a laywoman who lived in Sant'Angelo in Vado, Umbria, Italy during the 14th century. Although not much is known about her early life or her birth date, she is best remembered for the sanctity she brought to her everyday work and her devotion to God in her role as a wife and widow. Castora was married to Santuccio Sanfonerio, a prominent lawyer in their community. Together, they lived a virtuous and pious life, dedicated to their faith and helping those in need. Despite the demands of their secular occupations, Castora and Santuccio found solace in their shared spiritual journey. As a devout Catholic, Castora joined the Franciscan Third Order, also known as the Franciscan Tertiaries or the Secular Franciscans. This association allowed her to live out her religious vocation while remaining in the world, rather than joining a religious community. The Franciscan Tertiaries model their lives after the spirituality of Saint Francis of Assisi, emphasizing simplicity, poverty, and service to others. After several years of marriage, Castora's beloved husband, Santuccio, passed away, leaving her a widow. Despite her grief, she continued to find strength and purpose in her faith. Castora dedicated herself to prayer and acts of charity, offering support and solace to those in difficult marriages and to other widows. Her own experience of loss and sorrow allowed her to empathize deeply with those who faced similar trials. Castora passed away in 1391 of natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of sanctity and devotion to God. She was known to have lived a life marked by selflessness, humility, and a deep love for others. Her feast day is celebrated on the 14th of June. Although specific representations of Saint Castora Gabrielli in art are not widely known, she is often depicted as a humble and compassionate woman, radiating an inner peace. Her unmistakable aura of sanctity served as an inspiration to those who encountered her. Saint Castora Gabrielli has been recognized by the Catholic Church as a shining example of holiness in the midst of daily life. Her unwavering dedication to her faith, her commitment to helping those in need, especially those in difficult marriages and widows, has made her a patron for these causes. The faithful continue to seek her intercession, trusting in her ability to bring hope and healing to those experiencing marital struggles and the pain of widowhood. Saint Castora's life teaches us that we too can find sanctity in the ordinary, embracing our vocations and turning our everyday actions into opportunities for holiness.