Saint Samson of York

Biography

Saint Saturius of Soria, also known as Saturio, was born around 493 in Soria, Spain. He was born into a wealthy Visigoth noble family. However, after the death of his parents, Saturio made a significant decision that would shape the course of his life. He sold his inheritance and generously distributed the proceeds to the poor. Following this act of selflessness, Saturio retired from the material world and spent the next three decades living as a hermit in a cave located in the Sierra de Santa Ana near Soria. During his time in seclusion, Saturio dedicated himself to a life of prayer, contemplation, and penance. He found solace in his deep devotion to Saint Michael the Archangel and, as a result, built a chapel in his hermitage dedicated to this heavenly patron. It was a place where Saturio would frequently retreat to seek spiritual guidance and strength. Despite choosing a life of solitude, Saturio's commitment to his faith extended beyond his cave. He frequently ventured into towns and villages in the region to preach and teach the Gospel. One of the key focuses of his preaching was combating the heresy of Arianism, which he strongly refuted. Saturio's piety, humility, and teachings gained him a reputation as a holy man. His words and actions left a profound impact on the people in Soria and the surrounding areas. Many came to recognize him as a spiritual guide and sought his counsel and prayers. Saint Saturio peacefully passed away around 568, still residing in his hermitage cave near Soria. Prudencio, one of Saturio's spiritual students, who later became the bishop of Tarazona, Spain, reverently buried him in this holy place. The hermitage cave became a site of pilgrimage, attracting numerous faithful who desired to honor the memory of this saintly hermit and seek his intercession. Saint Saturio's sanctity and the miraculous favors obtained through his intercession led to a local devotion that continued to grow over the centuries. Recognizing the extraordinary cult surrounding Saturio, Pope Benedict XIV confirmed his veneration on 31st August 1753, declaring him a saint of the Pre-Congregation era. Since 1628, Saturio has been recognized as the patron saint of Soria, Spain. His intercession is particularly sought after by the Guild of Tanners and Weavers of Barcelona, Spain. To this day, Saint Saturio's cave remains a place of pilgrimage, attracting pilgrims from near and far who come to pray at his burial site and seek his spiritual guidance. The life and legacy of Saint Saturio of Soria serve as an inspiration for all who seek holiness and selfless devotion to God.