Saint of the Day – 13 September – St Venerius (c560-630) Confessor, Founder Abbot of the Monastery on the Island of Tino, near Genoa, Italy, Hermit, Ascetic, spiritual Counsellor, Miricle-worker. Borin in c560 on the Island of Palmaria and died in 630 on Timo Island. Patronages – of the Gulf of La Spezia, of Lighthouse Keepers. Also known as – Venerio.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “St Venerius, Confessor, a man of admirable sancity, who led an eremitical life on the Island of Timo.”
Little is known of Venerius’ early life and family background. However, it is believed that he had a deep faith and piety from a young age. Venerius was drawn to a life of solitude and seclusion, seeking a deeper spiritual union with God. He decided to dedicate his life to prayer and contemplation, ultimately becoming a Hermit on the Island of Tino.
As a Hermit, Venerius lived a life of simplicity and asceticism, distancing himself from worldly distractions and focusing solely on his devotion to God. His exceptional piety and profound spiritual insight attracted disciples who sought his guidance. Thus Venerius was led to establish a Monastic community on the Island.
Under his leadership, the Monastery flourished, attracting many individuals seeking a life of prayer in quiet surroundings. Venerius, as an Abbot, nurtured the spiritual growth of his fellow Monks, instilling in them the values of humility, discipline and dedication to God.
Among the notable aspects of Venerius’ life, is the Lighthouse on the Island of Tino. This Lighthouse which served as a beacon of light and safety for ships navigating the treacherous waters, became a symbol of hope and spiritual guidance. Due to its importance, Venerius’ association with the Lighthouse, led to his Patronage becoming closely tied with Lighthouse Keepers.
Despite living a secluded life, Venerius never failed to extend his support and prayers to those who depended upon him for counsel. Pilgrims from near and far sought his intercession, seeking his spiritual counsel and assistance in their quest for holiness. Known for his deep faith and miraculous abilities, Venerius was credited with numerous cures and graces granted through his intercession.
Saint Venerius departed from this earthly life on 13 September 630, leaving behind a legacy of holiness, wisdom and devotion to God. His sanctity was widely recognised even during his lifetime and after his death, his reputation as a saintly man only grew.
Venerius’ exemplary life and the countless miracles attributed to him, led to his veneration as a Saint by the faithful. His Feast Day is celebrated on 13 September, commemorating the day of his birthday into eternal life.
Saint Venerius is honoured as the Patron Saint of Lighthouse Keepers, who look to him as a heavenly protector and advocate. His dedication to God, his life as a Hermit and Abbot continue to inspire and offer solace to those entrusted with the safety and guidance of seafarers.
To this day, the memory of Saint Venerius lives on, serving as a testament to the power of prayer, the selflessness of a life devoted to God and the immense impact one individual can make in the lives of others.
Even in death, Venerius remains in the hearts of the people of the Gulf of La Spezia, of which he is the Patron, so much so that, when, about a century after his death, these lands and Towns were attacked by Saracen and then Norman ships, the first concern of the inhabitants of Porto Venere (named after our Saint) was to secure the Saint’s venerated remains.
NOTE: The Gulf of La Spezia, is a body of water on the north-western coast of Italy and part of the northern Tyrrhenian Sea, specifically of Ligurian Sea.
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