Born on July 22, 1559, in the Kingdom of Naples, Saint Lawrence’s given name was Julius Caesare Russo. His parents died when he was young, and his uncle took responsibility for Julius’ education at the College of Saint Mark in Venice. At age 16, Julius entered the Capuchin Franciscan Order and received the name Lawrence. He completed his philosophy and theology studies at the University of Padua and was ordained a priest at 23.
A talented scholar and gifted in languages, Lawrence also was deeply compassionate toward others and possessed exceptional administrative skills. He was elected minister general of the Capuchins in 1602, and he made great strides in expanding the Order. Appointed papal emissary and peacemaker, Lawrence traveled extensively, and during a mission to achieve peace in his native Kingdom of Naples, Lawrence journeyed to Lisbon to visit the king of Spain. While in Lisbon, he died from a serious illness in 1619.
In 1881, Pope Leo XIII canonized Lawrence, and Pope John XXIII proclaimed him a Doctor of the Church in 1959. Saint Lawrence of Brindisi, pray for us!
