Feast of Beato Nicola da Forca Palena

Beato Nicola da Forca
Palena, ora pro nobis

September 29th is the feast of Blessed Nicola of Forca Palena, priest and founder. Born around 1349 in Forca Palena, Abruzzo, Nicola entered the priesthood and served for a time near his birthplace. Drawn increasingly to solitude and penance, he eventually journeyed to Rome, where he joined a community of hermits devoted to spiritual life.

Nicola later established a hermitage on the Janiculum Hill in Rome, which developed into the church and monastery of Sant’Onofrio. His community was eventually united with the Poor Hermits of St. Jerome associated with Blessed Pietro Gambacorta, helping form the Jerolamin tradition.

After nearly a century of devotion to God, Nicola died at Sant’Onofrio in Rome in 1449. He was buried there, and his reputation for sanctity endured among the faithful. Pope Clement XIV formally confirmed his longstanding cult in 1771.

In celebration of his feast, we offer this prayer:

O Blessed Nicola of Forca Palena, Jerolamin, humble servant of God, who found true peace in solitude and prayer, intercede for us before the Lord. Help us seek unity and spiritual strength in times of tribulation, and guide us with your wisdom to the heart of the Holy Trinity. Amen.