Saint Placid of Ocre

Biography

Saint Placid of Ocre, also known as Placid of Roio or Placido, was born in Rodi, Italy, into a humble working-class family. From an early age, he displayed a deeply pious nature and a strong inclination towards a life of contemplation and devotion to God. Placid's desire for a spiritual life led him to the doors of the Cistercian order. He joined the monks at the Abbey of Saint Nicholas in Corno, Italy, where he received a thorough spiritual training and embraced the Cistercian way of life. Placid's dedication and commitment to the monastic rules soon caught the attention of his superiors, and he was recognized for his exceptional asceticism and humility. After spending some time at the Abbey of Saint Nicholas, Placid embarked on a solitary journey of solitude and prayer. He settled in the rugged and mountainous region of Ocre in the Abruzzi region of Italy, choosing an isolated and rugged spot for his hermitage. Placid embraced the austere life of a hermit and devoted himself to constant prayer, fasting, and penance. His solitary existence allowed him to deepen his connection with God and experience profound spiritual insights. Placid's reputation as a holy and wise hermit quickly spread throughout the region, attracting followers who sought his guidance and spiritual counsel. Recognizing the need for a more organized spiritual community, Placid founded the Santo Spirito monastery near Val d'Ocre. Under his guidance, the monastery grew and flourished, becoming a haven for those seeking a dedicated and contemplative life. One of the notable aspects of Placid's life was his self-imposed penance. As an extreme act of self-mortification, he decided to sleep standing up for the last 37 years of his life. This practice of perpetual vigilance served as a constant reminder of his unworthiness and devotion to God. Despite the physical hardships, Placid endured this penance with unwavering commitment, seeing it as a means to deepen his spiritual connection. Saint Placid of Ocre lived a life of remarkable sanctity and devotion, dedicated to God and his fellow monks. His strict adherence to the Cistercian ideals and his exemplary piety made him a beloved figure among his peers and followers. Throughout his life, Placid exemplified the virtues of humility, self-discipline, and unwavering faith. Saint Placid of Ocre passed away in the year 1248, due to natural causes. Although he is not officially recognized as a patron saint for any particular cause or occupation, his life serves as an inspiration to all those seeking a life of deep spirituality and dedication to God. His feast day is celebrated on June 12th, a day that honors his memory and reminds us of his extraordinary life and devotion to the monastic way of life. May the example and intercession of Saint Placid of Ocre inspire us to pursue holiness and to embrace a life of prayer, penance, and selfless service to others.