September 25

Italian.
1745-1824

Son of a druggist. His parents encouraged his vocation of a parish priest. Ordained in 1767. Joined the Passionists in 1768 after a retreat led by Saint Paul of the Cross. Professor of theology. Passionist provincial in 1781. Bishop of Macerata-Tolentino, Italy in 1801. Exiled in 1808 for refusing to take an oath of allegiance to Napoleon, but returned in 1813 after Napoleon's downfall. Saved Macerata from being sacked by Murat's troops. Instituted reforms throughout his diocese, ending such corruption that he received death threats. Indefatigable missioner and preacher. Worked with and for his people in during a typhus epidemic. On the death of Pope Pius VII, he resigned his see to become an advisor to Pope Leo XII.

Prayer...
All powerful and ever living God, you made your bishop Saint Vincent Mary Strambi a devoted shepherd of your flock and a faithful servant of your Church. Strengthen us by his example to love our neighbor and work for justice as members of your Church. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.