Saint Pacificus of Cerano

Biography

Saint Pacificus of Cerano, also known as Pacifico Ramati, Pacificus of Ceredano, or Pacificus Ramota, was born around 1424 in the town of Cerano, Novara, Lombardy, Italy. He was orphaned at a young age and was subsequently raised at the Benedictine monastery in Novara, where he received a strong education. Due to his academic abilities, Pacificus joined the Franciscan Friars Minor in 1445 and went on to further his studies in Paris, France. He obtained a doctorate from the prestigious Sorbonne and became renowned as one of the most learned men of his time. Ordained in 1452, Saint Pacificus dedicated himself to preaching missions throughout Italy for almost two decades, from 1452 to 1471. His sermons were characterized by their clarity, depth, and spiritual fervor, attracting large crowds eager to hear his words. His humble and charismatic demeanor, combined with his extensive knowledge of theology, made him highly effective in bringing people closer to God. In recognition of his exceptional abilities as a preacher and evangelist, Pope Sixtus IV commissioned Saint Pacificus to travel to Sardinia in 1471 as an evangelist and reformer. There, he fervently worked to spread the Gospel, promote spiritual renewal, and combat prevalent heresies. During his time in Sardinia, Saint Pacificus founded a monastery in Vigevano, Italy, which served as his base for teaching and preaching. He established a disciplined, prayerful community of friars dedicated to living a life of poverty and simplicity in imitation of Saint Francis of Assisi. In 1480, Saint Pacificus was summoned to preach the Franciscan Crusade to Turkey, further solidifying his commitment to the Catholic faith and his dedication to spreading God's word. He accepted this mission with great zeal, understanding the significance of countering the advancing Ottoman Empire and fostering religious unity. Tragically, Saint Pacificus died on 14 June 1482 in Sassari, Sardinia, Italy, at the age of 58 from natural causes. His relics are venerated in his birthplace of Cerano, Italy. As recognition of his profound holiness and the impact of his preaching, Saint Pacificus was beatified on 7 July 1745 by Pope Benedict XIV, with his cultus confirmed. He is commemorated on 4 June, though some calendars also celebrate his feast on 8 or 9 June. Saint Pacificus of Cerano is revered as a model of evangelization, renowned for his intellectual prowess, deep faith, and unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel message. He is considered a patron saint of Cerano, Italy, where his memory is cherished and his intercession sought.