St. Lawrence Justinian, Bishop and Confessor
by VP
Posted on Friday September 05, 2025 at 12:00AM in Saints
Statue of Saint Lawrence Justinian in the Cathedral of Padua
"BORN at Venice, in 1380, of a noble family, St. Lawrence Justinian at the age of nineteen entered the Congregation of the Canons Regular of St. George of Alga, and became distinguished in his community by his fervor, humility, and other virtues. After having, in consequence, been elected General of his Order in 1433, he was appointed bishop of Venice by Pope Eugenius IV. Here his sanctity shone forth in brilliant colors. He was accustomed to style the poor and unfortunate his "household," and therefore granted them an audience whenever they wished it. He deprived himself personally of all the accessories of his high position, and lived an austerely poor life, in order to amply supply the wants of his adopted family. He became the idol of his flock. He reformed all abuses in his diocese, and equalled, at last, even the Doge in authority. St. Lawrence died in 1455, illustrious for his miracles.
Generous as brave,
Affection, kindness, the sweet offices
Of love and duty, were to him as needful
As his daily bread.
SAMUEL ROGERS.
Favorite Practice: To tend the poor lovingly for the sake of Him whom they represent.
