St. Jerome Emiliani

St. Jerome Emiliani was born in Venice, Italy, in 1486. His early life was marked by military service and worldly ambitions. He served as a military commander for Venice, in charge of a fortress, and lived a life focused on his own strength and the power of his soldiers and weapons, with little regard for God.

In 1511, during the war against the League of Cambrai, Jerome's fortress was captured and he was imprisoned in a dark, dirty dungeon. It was in this moment of complete helplessness that Jerome experienced a profound spiritual conversion. Chained and powerless, he realized the futility of relying on worldly strength and turned to God for deliverance.

When he finally escaped from prison, Jerome hung his metal chains in the nearby church of Treviso as a symbol of gratitude—not only for being freed from physical imprisonment, but also from the spiritual chains that had bound his soul. This act marked the beginning of his new life dedicated to God and service to others.

After serving briefly as mayor of Treviso, Jerome returned to Venice where he studied for the priesthood. The war had left devastation in its wake, bringing famine and plague that caused thousands to suffer. Jerome devoted himself to serving the poor and suffering, with a special call to help orphans who had lost their families to sickness and starvation.

Using his own money, Jerome rented a house for the orphans, providing them with food, clothing, and education. He developed the first known catechetical teaching method using questions and answers, ensuring the children received both practical care and spiritual formation. His constant devotion to the suffering put him in danger, and he himself fell ill from the plague.

When he recovered, Jerome could have used his illness as an excuse to step back from his work, but instead it seemed to remove the last chains from his soul. He interpreted his suffering as a sign of how little worldly ambitions mattered. He committed his entire life and all his possessions to helping others, founding orphanages in other cities, a hospital, and a shelter for prostitutes. This work grew into the Clerks Regular of Somascha, named after the place where they had their house. Jerome died in 1537 at the age of 56 while caring for the sick.

Liturgical Celebration

The feast of St. Jerome Emiliani is celebrated on February 8th. This date commemorates his death and his entrance into eternal life, where he continues to intercede for all abandoned children and those who care for them.

Canonization

St. Jerome was canonized in 1767 by Pope Clement XIII. His canonization recognized not only his personal holiness but also the importance of his work in establishing care for orphans and abandoned children as a vital part of the Church's mission.

Modern Relevance

In today's world, St. Jerome's feast day serves as a reminder of the dignity of every child and the importance of caring for the most vulnerable members of society. It's a day to pray for all abandoned children and to remember those who work in orphanages and foster care.