St. Pacifico did not let a painful illness that robbed him of his speech and sight impair his pursuit of holiness.

He was born in 1653 in San Severino, Italy. When he was 5 years old, both of his parents died, and he was raised by an uncle, who was abusive and used the boy as a servant.

When he was 17 Pacifico joined the Franciscan order, and was ordained a priest at the age of 25. He spent two years teaching philosophy to his brothers in community, but it became clear that he had a talent for skillful preaching. He was sent throughout the region preaching and hearing confessions. His mission work was well received, and he had a gift for helping people confess their sins.

When he was in his mid-30s, he was struck blind and mute, and he developed sores that incapacitated his legs. He spent the rest of his time in the monastery, praying and doing what he could to help in the administration of his community.

Even though he suffered greatly from his debilitating illnesses, he continued to apply discipline to his body to sharpen his will; his superiors had to order him to limit his fasting because he would do his health further damage. During Mass, he was often caught up in ecstatic prayer, and would spend several hours in contemplation.

He was given the gifts of prophecy and healing, and after he died in 1721, miracles were reported at his tomb. His relics rest in the reliquary chapel in the Basilica.

St. Pacifico of San Severino, you would not let debilitating illness stand in the way of pursuing holiness—pray for us!

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Image Credit: Our featured image of St. Pacifico of San Severino is in the public domain. Last accessed April 2, 2025 on Wikimedia Commons.