August 20
Bernard Tolomei (1272–1348)
Founding Benedictine Abbot
Italian monk and founder of the Benedictine Congregation of Santa María de Monte Oliveto, Bernardo Tolomei combined penance with a charity that went as far as sacrifice.
Biography
Born in Siena with the name Juan, he studied law and participated in a fraternity that served the sick. A serious decline in eyesight and a desire for a fuller evangelical life led him to retire with two companions. The community adopted the Rule of Saint Benedict and grew rapidly. During the plague of 1348, Bernard returned to Siena to care for his sick monks and died of the infection along with many of them.
Practical advice
Visit or call a sick person today and ask them what specific help they need, without rushing the conversation.
Example of
Self-givingPrayerFounding spirit