Feast of Sant’Aldemaro da Capua

The Abbey of Monte Cassino

March 24th is the Feast Day of Sant’Aldemaro il Saggio (St. Aldemar the Wise), Abbot and miracle worker. Born in Capua, as a young boy he was sent to the Abbey of Monte Cassino, where he became a Benedictine monk. Renowned for his wisdom and holiness, he was appointed rector of the Monastery of San Lorenzo di Capua, which was founded by the Lombard Princess Aloara (d.992). Performing many miracles, Sant’Aldemaro was eventually recalled to Monte Cassino by his superiors, which caused a bitter dispute between the Abbot Aligerno (949-86) and the Princess. Wanting no part in the quarrel, Sant’Aldemaro moved on to Boviano in Molise, where he miraculously escaped a crossbow attack by a man outraged by his brother’s generous donation of land to the Saint. Relocating again, Sant’Aldemaro settled in Bocchignano, Abruzzo, where he founded the Monastery of Santa Eufemia. Traveling around the Diocese of Chieti preaching and performing miracles, he built several more religious houses before dying in 1080.

In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to St. Aldemar the Wise. The accompanying photo was taken during my 2007 pilgrimage to the Abbey of Monte Cassino in Southern Italy. Sant'Aldemaro da Capua, ora pro nobis.

Prayer to St. Aldemar the Wise

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that the examples of St. Aldemar the Wise may effectually move us to reform our lives; that while we celebrate his festival, we may also imitate his actions. Look upon our weakness, almighty God, and since the burden of our own deeds weighs heavily upon us, may the glorious intercession of St. Aldemar protect us. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.