Saint Galdinus of Milan

Biography

Saint Galdinus, also known as Galdinus della Sala, Galdimus, Galdin, or Galdino, was born in the year 1100 in Milan, Italy. He hailed from a noble family and was known for his exceptional intellect and devotion to the Catholic faith from an early age. Galdinus took up the vocation of a priest and his deep understanding of theology earned him the position of Chancellor in Milan, where he served diligently. During the schism of 1159, when the papacy was in upheaval, Galdinus firmly supported the Roman Pope, steadfastly defending the rightful authority of the Holy See. In 1161, when Frederick Barbarossa, the Holy Roman Emperor, laid siege to Milan in support of the anti-pope, Galdinus had to flee the city to ensure his safety. However, even in his absence, his steadfast commitment to the Church did not waver. Despite being away, Galdinus was still elected as the bishop of Milan, showcasing the love and trust the people had in him. Having endured the tumultuous times of the schism, Galdinus was elevated to the position of Cardinal in 1165, further emphasizing his significant contributions to the Church. The following year, he was appointed as the Archbishop of Milan, a position of great responsibility and spiritual authority. In addition to his roles as a bishop and cardinal, Galdinus was also entrusted with the important task of being a papal legate to Lombardy. As a papal representative, he sought to bring unity and stability to the region, striving to promote peace and adherence to the teachings of the Church. After the war that ravaged Milan, Galdinus returned to his beloved city and played a pivotal role in its reconstruction. His tireless efforts in rebuilding and revitalizing Milan earned him great respect and admiration from the people, who saw him as a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience. Tragically, during a sermon denouncing heresies, Saint Galdinus met his ultimate fate. It is said that he passed away in the pulpit, immediately after delivering this powerful message against false teachings. His death, though untimely, served as a testament to his unyielding dedication to the truth and his commitment to preserving the orthodoxy of the Catholic faith. Saint Galdinus of Milan is remembered and venerated on April 18th, the day that marks his feast day. His life is a testament to the enduring strength of faith in times of adversity and his unwavering commitment to the Catholic Church. Although he is not associated with a specific patronage, his life and teachings continue to inspire believers to stand firm in their convictions, even in the face of opposition.