Saint John Buonagiunta Monetti

Biography

Saint John Buonagiunta Monetti, also known as John Buonagiunta or John Bonaiuncta, was one of the Seven Founders of the Servants of Mary, a religious order dedicated to the service of God and the service of others. He was born in the town of Montefaglia, Italy, in the early 13th century. As one of the Seven Founders, Saint John Buonagiunta played a significant role in the establishment and development of the Servites. He was the youngest among the founders and showed great dedication to the spiritual life from a young age. His deep sense of compassion and desire to serve others led him to join the group of likeminded men who would later become known as the Servites. In 1233, Saint John Buonagiunta and his companions began their religious journey by withdrawing to the hills outside Florence, where they dedicated themselves to a life of prayer, penance, and service. During this time, they wore black habits to symbolize their penitential spirit and their dedication to Mary, the Mother of God. The Servites received formal recognition from the Church in 1249, and Saint John Buonagiunta became part of the leadership as the second prior-general of the order in 1256. As the prior-general, he played a crucial role in guiding the Servites and ensuring their growth and stability. Tragically, Saint John Buonagiunta's life was cut short in the same year of his election. He died in 1256 due to natural causes while sitting in the chapel, attentively listening to the Gospel account of the Passion. His death was seen as a testament to his strong devotion to Christ and the deep spirituality that characterized his life. Saint John Buonagiunta Monetti was canonized as a saint by Pope Leo XIII in 1887. His feast day is celebrated on February 17th each year, honoring his significant contributions to the founding and growth of the Servites. Although specific details about Saint John Buonagiunta's patronage are not widely known, he is considered a patron of those who strive to live a life of dedication and servic