 Benedict the Moor Born: 1526 Died: 1589 Canonized: Feast Day: Patron Saint of: African-Americans, Negro missions in North America Also known as "Benedict the Black", Benedict the Moor was born of African slaves to owners in San Fratello, Sicily. Benedict's parents were rewarded for their loyal service with freedom of their son at the age of 18. Benedict continued to work along side his family for meager wages and was quick to give what he had earned to those more needy and to the sick. When he was 21 years old, he gave up all of his earthly possessions and joined the local monastery. He later moved to Palermo to the Frairy of Saint Mary, where he was elected guardian and then novice master - despite being completely illiterate. Benedict was widely respected for his deep, intuitive understanding of theology and scripture and was often sought after for counseling. He died at the age of 63 and the very day and hour he predicted. |
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