Saint of the Day for 30 March: Blessed Amadeus IX of Savoy
Blessed Amadeus IX of Savoy: History, Miracles and Spiritual Legacy
Name
Blessed Amadeus IX of Savoy
Title
Duke, Franciscan Tertiary
Birth
1 February 1435, Thonon
Death
30 March 1472, Vercelli
Recurrence
30 March
Martyrology
2004 edition
Beatification
3 March 1678, Rome, Pope Innocent XI
Prayer
O Blessed Amadeus, who from your youth have found your strength in prayer and the Eucharist, teach us to face life’s trials with faith, humbly accepting suffering as an opportunity to be closer to God. You who have ruled with wisdom and justice, putting peace and reconciliation above discord, inspire the mighty of the earth to work for the common good and to always seek solutions of peace instead of war. Defender of Christianity and father of the poor, give us a generous heart, capable of recognising the face of Christ in those in need, and grant that we may live with trust in Providence, without being tempted by greed or fear of tomorrow. Blessed Amadeus, who to your last breath you advocated love for the poor, intercede for us before God, that we may walk uprightly, keeping the faith and doing good with untiring charity.
Amen
Roman Martyrology
In Vercelli, Blessed Amadeus IX, Duke of Savoy, who, during his rule, favoured peace in every way and unceasingly supported the causes of the poor, widows and orphans with material means and personal commitment.
Relics place
Metropolitan Cathedral Basilica of St Eusebius
The Saint and Mission
Blessed Amadeus IX of Savoy is a fascinating figure in history, known not only for his political role, but also for his deep spirituality and his commitment to the needy. His mission was characterised by a strong desire to promote justice and charity, seeking to improve the living conditions of people in his territory. His life is an example of how nobility can be combined with human and Christian values, inspiring many to follow his example of altruism and dedication. His beatification bears witness to the positive impact he had on the community and his continuous call to live with compassion and responsibility.
The Saint and Mercy
The life of Blessed Amadeus IX of Savoy is a shining example of how compassion and love of neighbour can guide a leader’s actions. Amadeus IX distinguished himself through his desire to help the needy and promote social justice, demonstrating that true nobility lies in the ability to care for others. His dedication to mercy was not just an ideal, but a daily practice that left a lasting impression on his community. His beatification reminds us of the importance of living with an open and generous heart, inspiring us to follow his example in our daily lives.
Hagiography
Amadeus was born in Thonon in 1435, son of Duke Louis I of Savoy and Anne of Lusignan, and grandson of the antipope Felix V. Already as a child he was betrothed to Iolanda, daughter of Charles VII of France. He grew into a handsome boy, unfortunately subject to epileptic fits, which he accepted as a correction to the inevitable adulation by his father’s courtiers and as an opportunity to be in closer contact with God. Daily Mass and prayer were his source of strength….