Saint of the Day – 28 December – Blessed Johannes Riedgasse O.Praem. (Died 1600) Abbot, Priest and Friar of the Premonstratensians or Norbertines, Born sometime in the 16th Century in Germany and died
there of natural causes in 1600.
Johannes joined the Premonstratensians, who are also called the Norbertines after their Founder, Saint Norbert of Xanten (c1080-1134), or White Canons after the colour of the Order’s Habit. He became a Canon Regular in their Monastery Obermarchtal in Swabia (now in the state of Baden-Württemberg).
In 1591, Johannes was elected Abbot and he held this office until his death. Despite his many duties, the exemplary Abbot participated day and night with the brothers in the choir prayer.
The blessed Reformer Servatius de Lairvelz (1560-1631), who made canonical visitations to Obermarchtal, was very impressed with Johannes’ piety and observence and governance of the Rule of the Order in his Monastery. This led to Johannes himself, being appointed as Visitor in his region, responsible for checking on other houses and helping their dedication.
According to tradition, during his last illness he received a vision of the blessed Ulrich, a predecessor as Abbot.
He died a holy death in 1600. He is honoured as Blessed by the Premonstratensians with a memorial day today, 28 December.
AnaStpaul 