Aloysius Rabata
Born in Erice near Trapani in Sicily about the middle of the fifteenth century. Aloysius joined the Carmelites and became prior of the reformed convent in Randazzo. There he died in 1490 from a head wound, forgiving his attacker and refusing to reveal his identity.
Office of Readings
Second Reading
from the Canonical Process
I knew Brother Aloysius well and often conversed intimately with him when he
was a member of the Carmelite community of St. Michael in the town of
Randazzo, where he was prior. He was a model of all virtues. He lived
frugally on bread and water, and led the life of a real saint and exemplary
religious. He shunned superfluous contacts and gave himself to honest work.
Because of his virtuous life he came to be hated, and was persecuted by his
fellow religious. These vexations and trials he bore with singular patience
and he devoted himself unceasingly to his spiritual patience and he devoted
himself unceasingly to his spiritual growth and to the good of the
community. The austerity of his life showed in his emaciated appearance,
his sunken eyes and his pallid features, through which, nonetheless, his
goodness shone out. To visitors he appeared as a model of all that was
good. One in particular who often came to see him has testified that he
was so profoundly moved by his example and holy conversation as to dissolve
in tears.
Though he was prior, Brother Aloysius shared in every task, even the
humblest, being willing to go from door to door in Randazzo begging bread,
grain or other such gifts to support the community and to help others in
need. While he was on his begging rounds, other poor people would in turn
ask alms from him, knowing they would never by refused.
Once, on Easter Sunday the community had meat for dinner, but he declined
it, preferring his usual bread and water--I was told this by Brother Peter
Cupani, a companion of Aloysius. He also recounted that once when Aloysius
was collecting twigs and branches for firewood in the nearby fields and
roadways, he was wounded in the forehead and suffered for a long time in
consequence. Many people tried to find out from him who had dealt the blow,
but he would never reveal it and always repeated with great patience, 'I
pray that God awill pardon him, and will be glorified by what has happened.'
The street that led to the monastery of St. Michael was dangerous and had a
bad reputation. To put an end to those scandals and shameful deeds, Brother
Aloysius managed to secure a nearby piece of land, thereby opening up a good
wide street. Though others aided in the project, he with his own hands
worked as hard as any. Whenever he needed anything for his monastery, all
were willing to aid him, for they recalled his kindness and hospitality
towards everyone.
After his death his body was enclosed in a casket and placed behind a grille
under the altar of the church. Here many came with great piety and devotion
to pray to him, especially those who were suffering from quartan fever, many
of whom were cured. Quite a number of such cures were reported at the time,
and the reports continue till the present day.
Responsory
R/. Whenever you come to prayer * if you have anything
against anyone you must forgive him, and your Father
in heaven will forgive your failing too (alleluia).
V/. If you do not forgive others, your Father in heaven will
not forgive your failings either. * If you have anything
against anyone you must forgive him, and your Father
in heaven will forgive your failings oo (alleluia).
Prayer
Father,
You distinguished Bl. Aloysius Rabata
with extraordinary charity and patience in bearing injuries.
May we honor his memory by showing love,
as he did, even for our enemies,
and thus merit an eternal reward.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever.
Peace be with you!
Rosemarie, ocds
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