A portrait of St. Benedict the Moor
St. Benedict the Moor
1526 – 1589
Feast
April 4 · XVI c.
Patron of
African Americans · Black Catholics · Palermo · Cooks
Order
Franciscan Brother
Sicilian Franciscan lay brother (1526-1589), son of African slaves; freed at birth, joined a community of hermits and later the Friars Minor of Palermo, where though illiterate he served as superior of the friary. Patron of Black Catholics in the Americas. Feast April 4.
Life & Times
Also known as: Benedict of Palermo · Born: 1526 · Died: 1589 · From: Italy / Sicily.
Patronage
St. Benedict the Moor is invoked as the patron of african americans, black catholics, palermo, cooks. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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Devotional items honoring St. Benedict the Moor, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Benedict the Moor, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.