Child of a noble family, Bernadine, born in 1380, was orphaned at 7 and raised by loving relatives who provided him with an excellent education. During an outbreak of the plague in 1400, he ministered to the sick, inspiring other young men to take the same risk. In 1402, he entered the Franciscan order and was ordained in 1404.

Commissioned to preach, Bernadine won converts all over northern and central Italy thanks to his intelligence, eloquence, and intuitive understanding of the needs of his listeners. Having refused several bishoprics, he became vicar general of the Franciscans, brought reform and inspired vocations. A true son of Saint Francis, Bernadine died in 1444 and was canonized in 1450.©2011 Living with Christ, Novalis - Bayard Press Canada Inc., http://www.livingwithchrist.ca/. Reprinted with permission.