St. Ignatius of Santhià
Capuchin Priest
Feast Day: September 22
Biography
St. Ignatius (1686–1770) was born Lorenzo Maurizio Belvisotti on June 5, 1686, in Santhià, in the Piedmont region of northern Italy. His father died when he was young, and a local priest helped guide his education. He was ordained a priest in 1710 and could have had a comfortable career in the Church, but he felt called to a humbler life. In 1716 he entered the Capuchin friars, taking the name Ignatius, and made his profession in 1717. He served as sacristan in several friaries, and from 1731 he was master of novices, forming young Capuchins with gentleness and firmness. In the 1740s, during the War of the Austrian Succession, he served as chief chaplain in military hospitals for the army of King Charles Emmanuel III, caring for wounded and dying soldiers. He then returned to the friary of Monte dei Cappuccini in Turin, where he spent his last decades hearing confessions, giving spiritual direction, and visiting the sick and the poor of the city, who flocked to him for counsel. He died on September 22, 1770, with a reputation for holiness. Pope St. Paul VI beatified him in 1966, and Pope St. John Paul II canonized him on May 19, 2002.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Ignatius of Santhià, humble friar and servant of the sick, you comforted wounded soldiers and welcomed sinners with mercy. Pray for military chaplains and for all who serve in the armed forces. Help me to seek God in humility, to make good use of confession, and to bring Christ's peace to those who suffer. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Ignatius of Santhià, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Ignatius of Santhià, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.