Saint Benedict the Moor (1524-1589)
for April 4
Saint Benedict was not a Moor; his name comes from the Italian phrase "il Moro," or "the Black One." He was granted freedom from slavery at the age of 18. Even though he was free, he continued to work for his former master. Saint Benedict was ridiculed and taunted by others because of his status as a former slave, and because of the color of his skin. Even though he endured harsh words from others, Saint Benedict remained cheerful. He joined a group of Franciscan hermits near Palermo, Italy, and humbly agreed to become superior of the friars. When Saint Benedict's term as superior ended, he cheerfully went back to working in the friary kitchen. His humble and cheerful nature helped to reform his order. Saint Benedict the Moor is the patron saint of African missions, African-Americans, and Palermo, Italy.
Read more about Saint Benedict the Moor (1524-1589)
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Reflection
The root of the word "humility" is "humus," meaning "earth." Humble people are down-to-earth people, easy to talk to, comfortable to be with. Some are even popular. Others try to be popular by bragging about what they do. Can someone be humble, popular, and talented? Of course. The humble person recognizes that all gifts and talents come from God, and are to be used in service of others. Being humble doesn’t mean we can’t be proud of what we do or accept praise. It just means that praise from others is not our goal. Our goal is to be and do our very best. The question, Am I doing my best at this with thanks and praise to God? is the starting point for humility. If the end result is popularity, accept it with humble gratitude! (Taken from “By My Side: A Teen Prayer Companion.”)
Prayer
Help me to be humble, God, and to live my life for your glory. (Taken from “By My Side: A Teen Prayer Companion.”)
