Feast of Beato Bernardo II di Baden, Il Cavaliere Angelico

Beato Bernardo II di Baden, ora pro nobis

July 15th is the feast of Blessed Bernard II of Baden, the “Angelic Knight,” Margrave, Tertiary of the Order of St. Francis, Crusader and Envoy. Born in 1428, Bl. Bernard was the second son of Jacob I of Baden and Catherine of Lorraine. Trained in the arts of war and diplomacy, after the death of his father he entered into the service of Emperor Frederick III. Deeply pious, the “apostle of the poor” worked tirelessly to help the sick and the needy. Attempting to negotiate an alliance with the Venetians and Genoese against the Ottomans, he found the city of Genoa in the grip of a virulent epidemic. Advised against entering the city, he chose to fulfill his duty and was infected. In 1458, on the journey home, he died of the plague in Moncalieri, Piedmont, where he soon became a local patron due to the numerous healing miracles which took place around his tomb.

In celebration, we’re posting a prayer to Bl. Bernard II of Baden. The accompanying photo comes courtesy of Father Eugene Carrella. The holy card is part of Father Carrella’s impressive collection of religious artifacts. Evviva Beato Bernardo II di Baden!

Prayer to Bl. Bernard II of Baden

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that the examples of Bl. Bernard II of Baden may effectually move us to reform our lives; that while we celebrate his feast, 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 Bl. Bernard protect us. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.