March 27: Saint Francis Faa di Bruno

March 27 marks the feast day of Saint Francis Faa di Bruno (1825-1888), priest and scholar. Born to nobility in northern Italy, the last of 12 children, Francis joined the Sardinian army, intending to make a career of military life. Having been appointed as an officer, captain-of-staff, his intellect and character soon attracted the attention of his superiors, including the King, Victor Emmanuel II. Desiring a tutor for his children, the king asked Francis to serve at that post, which he graciously agreed to do. However, given the anti-Catholic sentiment of the time, and the fact that Francis was a vocal member of the Catholic community, the king was forced to choose a different tutor.

This experience, however, convinced Francis that military life was not for him. Instead, he resigned his commission, and decided to pursue a degree in mathematics. Francis traveled to Paris, where he studied at the Sorbonne under the Catholic savant Cauchy. He was described as: “tall and not always well dressed, but he was simple and good natured. He was of a solitary disposition and spoke seldom (and not always successfully in the classroom). He cultivated music and was said to be a good pianist…admired, not only for his genius, but also for his religious fervor and his philanthropy.”

After graduation from the Sorbonne, Francis returned to Turin where he earned a doctorate in mathematics. He was a gifted mathematician, and contributed greatly to the field. However, he was also drawn to philanthropy, causes of social justice, and service to others. In Turn, he met and grew to appreciate Saint John Bosco, who had established a number of schools and residences for boys in need of learning a trade. Inspired by the great saint, Francis entered the seminary and was ordained a priest. He then established the Society of Saint Zita (Suore Minime di Nostra Signora del Suffragio), a religious order dedicated to helping young women in need of help and education. He served unmarried mothers, maids and domestics, prostitutes, and anyone in need of help, providing not only lodging but education and skills training. Saint Francis established lodging houses for the poor, ill, and elderly, himself ministering to those in need every day. From his mathematics success, having published several books, he used his earnings to finance his charity.

Noted as a saint by those who knew him, and venerated locally, Saint Francis Faa di Bruno was officially canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1988. He is remembered for a quick, scientific mind, the perfect example of the Church’s simultaneous commitment to scientific rigor and faith. Saint Francis, who did not become a priest until 51 years of age, reminds us that it is never too late to change our lives, to look beyond ourselves, and to open our hearts to others. The plan of God knows no human timeframe. We need only place our faith in Him, and answer His call, regardless of our own plans! Saint Augustine reminds us of this in his Confessions: "Too late, have I loved Thee, O Beauty so ancient and so new, too late have I loved Thee! Thou wast with me, and I was not with Thee; I was abroad, running after those beauties which Thou hast made...Thou hast called, Thou hast cried out, and hast pierced my deafness. Thou hast enlightened, Thou hast shone forth, and my blindness is dispelled. I have tasted Thee, and am hungry of Thee. Thou hast touched me, and I am afire with the desire of thy embraces."

What is the Lord calling us to do today and in the future?


(Today is the last day of my 45 day Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes. May her peace and intercession continue for all of you who have submitted prayer requests, or held them in your hearts. Our Lady of Lourdes, pray for us who have recourse to thee!)


 
 
 
 
 
Day 86 of 365
Prayer Intentions: Steadfast faith; Those unable to worship due to fear of persecution.
Requested Intentions: For Healing (A); The blessing of children (S); Safety of travelers (J); Improved family relationship with the Lord, using gifts for His glory (L); For a restorative, faith-deepening Lent for all those who are struggling (L).
Special Intentions (Day 45 of 45-day Novena to Our Blessed Lady of Lourdes): The intentions of all those who read this blog, whether submitted or retained in the quiet of their hearts; Penance, Penance, Penance for sinners; For all those who are suffering.