St. Nicholas of Tolentino
Augustinian Friar and Priest
Feast Day: September 10
Biography
St. Nicholas (c. 1245–1305) was born at Sant'Angelo in Pontano, in the Marche region of central Italy. According to tradition, his parents, long childless, prayed at the shrine of St. Nicholas of Myra and named their son for him. As a young man he joined the Augustinian friars after hearing one of them preach, and he was ordained a priest around 1270. After serving in several communities, he was sent to Tolentino around 1275, where he remained for the rest of his life. There he preached in the streets, heard confessions for long hours, visited the sick and the poor, and brought peace to a city torn by the feuds of the Guelphs and Ghibellines. He lived a life of prayer and severe penance. Nicholas was known for his devotion to the souls in purgatory, for whom he offered Mass and prayers. A popular story tells that, when he was ill, the Virgin Mary directed him to eat bread dipped in water, and he was healed. From this comes the custom of blessing 'St. Nicholas bread,' still given to the sick. He died on September 10, 1305. Pope Eugene IV canonized him in 1446, making him the first Augustinian friar to be declared a saint.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Nicholas of Tolentino, faithful friend of the souls in purgatory, you prayed and offered sacrifices for those awaiting the vision of God. Help me to remember my departed loved ones in prayer. Pray for the sick and the grieving, and teach me to be an instrument of peace wherever there is division. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Nicholas of Tolentino, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Nicholas of Tolentino, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.