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Feast Day: May 10
Saint Frodoino of Novalesa, also known as Frodoino of Novalesa, was born in the latter part of the 8th century into a noble Frankish family. His parents were Magafredo and an unnamed mother. Frodoino's early life was marked by his strong spiritual inclination, and he devoted himself to the service of God from a young age. As he grew older, Frodoino felt a calling to a more ascetic life and decided to become an oblate, dedicating himself to a monastic life of prayer, contemplation, and rigorous discipline. His devotion and commitment soon caught the attention of the monks at the monastery of Saints Peter and Andrew in Novalesa, Italy. Recognizing his potential, they invited Frodoino to join their community. Frodoino gladly accepted the invitation and became a monk at the monastery of Novalesa. His deep spirituality, combined with his natural leadership abilities, quickly became apparent to his fellow monks and superiors. In recognition of his exemplary character and administrative skills, on 10 February 773, Frodoino was chosen as the abbot of the monastery. As abbot, Frodoino served the monastery of Novalesa for a remarkable 43 years. Under his wise and compassionate leadership, the monastery thrived and became widely renowned for its commitment to learning and the preservation of holy relics. Frodoino personally oversaw the training of scribes and copyists who meticulously transcribed sacred texts, ensuring the dissemination of knowledge and the preservation of Christian teachings. One of the significant events of Frodoino's life was his friendship with Blessed Charlemagne, the powerful ruler of the Frankish Empire. Charlemagne admired Frodoino's spiritual wisdom and dedication to the Christian faith. The emperor became a strong supporter of the monastery and its endeavors, helping to secure its financial stability and further its scholarly pursuits. Despite the demands of his responsibilities as abbot, Frodoino never wavered in his commitment to a life of virtue and piety. He was known for his unwavering dignity, humility, and kindness. Many sought his counsel and guidance, considering him a model of a true Christian leader. Saint Frodoino of Novalesa died of natural causes in the year 816, leaving behind a legacy of profound faith, scholarship, and exemplary leadership. His impact on the monastery remained long after his death, and his contributions to the preservation of knowledge and Christian spirituality continued to inspire generations of monks who succeeded him. Although Saint Frodoino of Novalesa's canonization occurred before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, his holiness and profound impact on the monastic world have ensured his veneration throughout the centuries. His feast day is celebrated on 10 May, a day dedicated to honoring his memory and seeking his intercession. While not officially designated as the patron saint of any particular cause or group, Saint Frodoino of Novalesa remains an example of unwavering faith, intellectual pursuit, and humble leadership. His life continues to inspire individuals seeking to deepen their spiritual lives and contribute to the betterment of society.