Saint Who?
Saints Who Could Read Souls
Saint Pacificus of San Severino
Priest († 1721) Feast: September 24
Carlo Antonio was the last of thirteen children born to a peasant family in San Severino, Italy. At age five he lost both his parents, and went to live with his Uncle Luzizio, the canon of the cathedral in San Severino, a difficult and unduly strict man. Carlo patiently suffered Luzizio’s reproaches until, at age sixteen, he joined the Franciscans, taking the name Pacificus.
By the time he was twenty-five, Pacificus had been ordained and was traveling through the countryside preaching the Gospel to rich and poor alike. His great gift was the ability to read souls. Many who went to him for confession found that he led them to discover the sins they were hiding from themselves.
In 1684, when he was but thirty-five, Pacificus was stricken with illness. He developed ulcers on his legs and walking became difficult. At the same time, he began to lose his eyesight and his hearing. He continued his preaching, but eventually he was confined to the Franciscan house at San Severino. Now all of Pacificus’ energies went toward penance and ardent prayer. Drawing very close to Jesus, he offered everything for sinners. Those who saw him say Mass at this time say that he was often transfixed in ecstasy. Pacificus foretold his own death on September 24, 1721. He was canonized in 1839.
Father in heaven, through the intercession of
Saint Pacificus of San Severino, lead me to an awareness of my hidden wounds, that I might feel your mercy.
