Saint of the Day: St. Bonaventure | Jul 15, 2024

Saint Bonaventure: The Seraphic Doctor
Saint Bonaventure is a highly esteemed figure in the Catholic Church, renowned for his profound theological insights, contributions to the Franciscan Order, and dedication to scholarly pursuits. Below are key facts about his life, other saints celebrated on July 15th, and sources for more information.
Facts about Saint Bonaventure:
Birth: Born in 1221 in Bagnoregio, Italy.
Early Life: Baptized as Giovanni di Fidanza; reportedly healed from a serious illness as a child through the intercession of Saint Francis of Assisi.
Education: Studied at the University of Paris, where he later became a professor.
Franciscan Order: Joined the Franciscan Order in 1243, taking the name Bonaventure.
Key Moments:
Elected Minister General of the Franciscan Order in 1257, significantly reforming and unifying the Order.
Played a crucial role in the Second Council of Lyons in 1274.
Authored several theological and philosophical works, including "The Journey of the Mind to God" and "Commentary on the Sentences."
Patronage: Patron saint of bowel disorders, the Franciscan Order, and several educational institutions.
Canonization: Canonized on April 14, 1482, by Pope Sixtus IV.
Doctor of the Church: Declared a Doctor of the Church in 1588 by Pope Sixtus V.
Other Saints Celebrated on July 15th:
Saint Vladimir the Great: Grand Prince of Kiev who converted to Christianity and Christianized Kievan Rus'.
Saint Swithun: Bishop of Winchester, known for his piety and association with weather folklore.
Saint Plechelm: Irish missionary and bishop who evangelized in the Netherlands.
Sources for More Information:
Catholic Online
Franciscan Media
These resources provide comprehensive details on the life and legacy of Saint Bonaventure and other saints celebrated by the Catholic Church.