Saint of the Day – 26 April – St Clarence of Venice (12th Century) Bishop and Confessor, a diligent and committed Apostle of the poor, the sick, the outcasts, founding Hospitals and Schools for their care. Clarence was renowned for his great wisdom, piety and humility and his exceptional administrative abilities and for his many miracles. Also known as – Clareno, Chiarenzio. Great confusion exists regarding our Saint today. He is most commonly confused with St Clarentius of Vienne who was celebrated yesterday, 25 April. The information below is not confirmed anywhere, unfortunately, nor am I able to find an image of our Saint.
Although not much is known about his early life, it is believed that Clarence was born in the 12th Century in Italy and devoted his entire life to the service of God and his people.
He studied and was Ordained at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks due to his exceptional leadership qualities and commitment to preaching the Gospel. His devotion to his faith and the well-being and growth in sanctity of his flock, made him a beloved figure, both within the clergy and among the faithful.
As the Bishop of Venice, Clarence played a crucial role in the spiritual and moral development of the City. His pastoral efforts focused on promoting unity among the faithful and fostering a deep understanding of the importance of faith in their daily lives. He set an example of virtuous living and tirelessly preached the Gospel to his congregation, inspiring them to lead lives rooted in love, compassion and devotion.
Known for his exceptional administrative abilities, Clarence worked towards the improvement of the Diocese by establishing schools, hospitals and other charitable institutions. Under his guidance, the Church in Venice flourished and became a centre of learning and holiness.
Throughout his life, Clarence emphasised the importance of almsgiving and the care of the needy and less fortunate. He dedicated himself to serving the poor, the sick and the oppressed, tirelessly offering them support, hope and solace. His efforts to alleviate the suffering of others made him a true champion of the suffering and gained him great reverence among the people.
Clarence’s spiritual influence extended well beyond the confines of Venice. People from far and wide sought his counsel and his intercession. Known for his miracles and the extraordinary power of his prayers, he became widely recognised as a man of great holiness and virtue.
Saint Clarence of Venice on 26 April, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, humility and great love for his neighbour. His selfless and unwavering dedication to God and his people, earned him a special place in the hearts of the faithful. While Saint Clarence of Venice does not have any specific patronage attributed to him, he continues to be remembered and venerated by the faithful as a model of Christian virtue and a source of inspiration for all those who aspire to a life of holiness. His feast day is celebrated today 26 April, serving as a reminder of his legacy and the enduring impact he made on the Church and the world.
AnaStpaul 