Deepertruth: The St. Bernardine of Siena's Story, "The Apostle of Italy"

St. Bernardine traveled far and wide across Italy standing up against the rise of Paganism that threatened the Church and civilization. St. Bernardine through his reputation of being a Christian leader calmed many. Matthew 5:13-16 states, '“You are the salt of the earth. But if salt loses its taste, with what can it be seasoned? It is no longer good for anything but to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father." St. Bernardine's reputation offered great hope among those suffering.

So popular was St. Bernardine when he came near towns and cities, he would attract large crowds as much as 30,000. He lived what he preached and the results helped transfigure many lives to a deeper love for Jesus and His Mother, the Virgin Mary. Of Mother Mary, St. Bernardine stated, "You must know that when you 'hail' Mary, she immediately greets you! Don't think that she is one of those rude women of whom there are so many-on the contrary, she is utterly courteous and pleasant. If you greet her, she will answer you right away and converse with you!"

His motivation and energy was contagious. Through his many travels, he wore himself down becoming weak with exhaustion and his voice became hoarse through all his testimony. It is said that St. Bernardine was miraculously healed through the intercession of the Virgin Mary. Interestingly, he was born on the Virgin Mary's birthday.