St. Jerome Emiliani

Born in the late fifteenth century, St. Jerome was once consumed by desires for rank and status, leading him to a military career. However, God used his capture during a skirmish to show him the vanity of such pursuits.

Imprisoned and chained, St. Jerome realized that true victory is found in Christ. He prayed fervently to the Blessed Mother, who miraculously led him out of his cell.

Freed from physical and spiritual chains, he dedicated his life to God, became a priest, and founded the Order of Somascha. St. Jerome devoted himself to serving the sick and orphans, ultimately succumbing to an illness while caring for those in need.