St. Aldemar was a monk in 11th century Italy who was known for wisdom and for the ability to work miracles through prayer.

As a boy, he was sent to the famous monastery founded by St. Benedict, Monte Cassino. He grew in his studies and became known as “Aldemar the Wise.”

Because of his learning and insight, a princess of a nearby region asked Aldemar to lead a new convent she had founded. He accepted and was given permission to take on the role, and in the course of his duties it became clear that he had been given the gift of working miracles. The wonders he worked attracted much attention, however, so his abbot recalled him to Monte Cassino.

The princess took offense at this, and a dispute arose. Aldemar decided to escape to a different town to live with three religious brothers there. One of the brothers came to dislike him, and even tried to murder Aldemar.

The brother intended to shoot Aldemar with a crossbow, but mishandled the weapon and wounded himself in the arm. The injury worsened until Aldemar prayed for the brother, and he was cured.

After that, Aldemar struck out on his own and built a new monastery. In time, he founded several other houses, and directed all of these communities. He later died around 1080.

St. Aldemar, you prayed for the brother who tried to kill you with a crossbow—pray for us!

---

Image Credit: Our featured image of St. Aldemar is used with permission from Catholic Online. Last accessed February 6, 2025.