St Benedict Joseph Labre

Benedict was the oldest of 18 children; his parents ran a store. He was taught all of his schooling by his uncle who was the parish priest. Benedict was not sure what he wanted to do with his life; he had tried to join many monasteries but was not allowed. When he was 15 year old, he felt God was calling him to become a pilgrim (someone who travels to holy places and prays). He traveled around Europe visiting many famous shrines. He would live off the food that others would give him. If he had too much, he would give it to others in need. If he was given money, he would give it to the poor. He had a special love in his heart for Mary and for the Blessed Sacrament. He finally settled in Rome where he was known as the “beggar of Rome.” People who did not know him, were scared of him or avoided him, but the people who did know him, often visited him for prayer or advice. He was a very humble and holy man. On April 16th, 1783, he prayed for 2 hours at a church in Rome then laid down and peacefully died. He was only 35 years old.