Bl. Luke Belludi (1200-1285)
Image: Ad Jesum Per Mariam
(Franciscan Media) In 1220 as Fr. Anthony of Padua was ministering conversion to Jesus Christ to the inhabitants of Italy Padua, a young nobleman Luke Belludi, came up to him and humbly asked to receive the habit of the followers of Saint Francis — Anthony took to the talented, well educated Luke and personally recommended him to Saint Francis who then received him into the Franciscan Order.
Luke then only 20 yrs of age, was to be Anthony’s traveling companion and help in his ministry, tending to him through his last days and taking Anthony’s place upon his death. Subsequently appointed Guardian of the Friars Minor in the City of Padua. In 1239, the city fell into the hands of its enemies, Nobles were executed, the Mayor and Council were disbanded, the great University of Padua closed and the Church dedicated to Saint Anthony was left unfinished. –Luke, banished from Padua secretly returned and at night, Luke and the new Guardian of the Friars Minor, visited the tomb of Saint Anthony in the unfinished shrine to pray for his help.
One night a voice came from Saint Anthony’s tomb, assuring Luke and the present Guardian of the Friars Minor, that Padua would soon be delivered from the evil tyrant.
After the fulfillment of the prophetic message, Luke was elected Provincial Minister and furthered the completion of the great Basilica in honor of Saint Anthony his teacher, traveling companion and confidant. Luke subsequently founded many Convents of the order and had, as Saint Anthony, the Gift of Miracles.
Upon Luke’s death in 1285 he was laid to rest in the Basilica that he helped finish and has had a continual great respect up to the present time. Blessed Luke Belludi was beatified according to Roman Catholic Saints.com by Pope Pius XI
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