Saint of the Day – 11 May – Saint Illuminatus OSB (Died 13th Century) of San Severino Marche, Confessor

Saint of the Day – 11 May – Saint Illuminatus OSB (Died 13th Century) of San Severino Marche in Umbria, Italy, a Monk at the Monastery of San Mariano (now Santa Caterina), Monk and Confessor., Miracle-worker. Born probably somewhere in Italy and died at the Monastery of San Severino Marche of natural causes. Patronage – of the City and Diocese of San Severino Marche. Also known as – Illuminato.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At San Severino, in the Marches of Ancona, St Illuminatus, Confessor.”

Information about Illuminatus, a Benedictine Monk who lived in the second half of the 13th Century, is scarce. His figure, venerated as a Saint by the City of San Severino Marche , has emerged over ttime thanks to popular devotion and some historic documents which attest to his sanctity and miracles.

Although tradition identifies him as a native of San Severino in the Marches of Ancona, he was actually born elsewhere. Historic sources associate him with the Monastery of San Mariano (now Santa Caterina), located near the City, where he spent his monastic life.

He lived in the second half of the 13th Century, a period of great religious fervour and the flourishing of the Benedictine movement.

Illuminatus distinguished himself by his sanctity and his deep faith and devotion. His fame spread rapidly, fueled by the numerous miracles attributed to him. Popular tradition tells of miraculous cures, divine intercessions and prodigies which increased his reputation as a Saint.

Devotion to Illuminatus took deep root in the hearts of the people of San Severino Marche. His fame as a miracle worker and intercessor with God, caused the community to venerate him as a Saint. In 1702 he was officially listed among the co-protectors of the City, confirming his role as an intercessor and celestial protector. The Liturgical Feast of St Illuminatud is celebrated on 11 May, the presumed date of his death. On this date, the City of San Severino Marche celebrated its Patron Saint with solemn processions, Holy Mass and great civin celebrations.