Saint Benedict Day
- What
- Saint Benedict Day
- When
- 7/11/2021
- Where
- Catholic / Christian
Saint Benedict Day, also known as Saint Benedict’s Feast Day, is traditionally celebrated by catholic monks on March 21st, the day of his death. However, the Roman Catholic Church commemorates his life on July 11th. Saint Benedict is celebrated as the Patron Saint of Europe, and is known for his book “The Rule,” which has become one of the most influential works in all of Western Christendom.
Saint Benedict was born in Norcia around 480 AD right before the fall of the Western Roman Empire. After finishing primary school in Norcia he broadened his knowledge in Rome learning literature and law. Appalled by the dissolute lifestyle by his fellow peers and the political turmoil of Rome, he retired to the Affile performing his first miracle before becoming a hermit that lived in a cave away from the general population. Befriending the monk Romanus who provided his spiritual needs, Saint Benedict wrote “The Rule” a simple guideline of how monks should live their life. Gaining in popularity he founded 12 monasteries before moving towards Cassino where he founded the most famous Abbey in continental Europe.
Saint Benedict Day is formerly celebrated on July 11th leading with a gathering to offer praise for Benedict’s life, followed by festive meals, to share Benedict’s joyful hospitality and all he did for the Christian faith and the many miracles he performed.