Feast Day: February 17
Canonization: Pope Leo XIII, 1888
Patronage: Servite Order, devotion to the Sorrows of Mary
The Origins of the Seven Founders
In the early 13th century, Florence was a city marked by political strife and moral decline. Amid this turbulent atmosphere, seven noblemen, deeply devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary, withdrew from worldly affairs to seek a life of prayer and penance. Their names were:
- Bonfilius Monaldi
- Alexius Falconieri
- Benedict dell’Antella
- Bartholomew Amidei
- Hugh Uguccioni
- Gerard Sostegni
- John Buonagiunta
Each of them had been active members of a Marian confraternity known as the Laudesi, which was dedicated to honoring the Mother of God through prayer and works of mercy. Moved by an interior call to deeper service of Our Lady, they decided to abandon their wealth and social status, embracing a life of poverty and contemplation.
The Vision of the Blessed Virgin
In 1233, while gathered in prayer, the Seven received a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who urged them to leave the city and devote themselves entirely to God. Following this heavenly guidance, they withdrew to Monte Senario, a solitary mountain outside Florence. There, they embraced an austere life of fasting, manual labor, and constant prayer.
Sometime later, the Blessed Virgin appeared to them again, instructing them to establish an order dedicated to her service, particularly in honor of her sufferings at the foot of the Cross. This led to the formation of the Order of the Servants of Mary, commonly known as the Servites. They adopted a black habit, symbolizing the sorrows of Our Lady, and committed themselves to promoting devotion to her Seven Sorrows.
Growth and Papal Recognition
The holiness of the Seven attracted many followers, and their community flourished. They spread throughout Italy and beyond, preaching penance and Marian devotion. Initially, some church authorities opposed their new way of life, but in 1256, Pope Alexander IV officially approved the order. Later, Pope Benedict XI granted them the Rule of St. Augustine.
One of the most notable members of the Servite Order was St. Philip Benizi, who became their superior general and played a crucial role in organizing and expanding their mission.
Holy Deaths and Canonization
One by one, the Seven Founders passed away, all dying in the odor of sanctity. The last of them, Alexius Falconieri, lived until 1310, reaching the age of 110. He was present at the death of his niece, St. Juliana Falconieri, who later founded the Servite Third Order.
Although each of the Seven was revered as a saint, they were not canonized until 1888, when Pope Leo XIII, recognizing their collective holiness and contribution to the Church, declared them saints in a single act.
Legacy and Spiritual Impact
The Servite Order continues to thrive today, fostering devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows and serving the Church through preaching, education, and missionary work. The Seven Founders remain a powerful example of humility, fraternity, and Marian devotion.
Reflection
The lives of the Seven Founders show that true greatness lies in forsaking worldly honors for the love of Christ and His Blessed Mother. Their story calls us to deepen our devotion to Our Lady’s sorrows and to embrace a life of prayer and service.
Let us ask their intercession that we may always seek the will of God, even at the cost of personal sacrifice.
Holy Seven Founders of the Servite Order, pray for us!