Blessed Jordan of Saxony was the second Master General of the Dominican Order, following the death of St. Dominic in 1221. He is renowned for his holiness, eloquence, and tireless work in expanding the Order of Preachers. His zeal for vocations and his deep spiritual writings made him one of the most significant figures in early Dominican history.
Early Life and Dominican Vocation
Jordan was born around 1190 in Westphalia, part of modern-day Germany. He studied at the University of Paris, where he gained a reputation for intellectual brilliance. While at Paris, he encountered the Dominicans and was deeply moved by their way of life. In 1220, he joined the Order, receiving the habit from St. Dominic himself.
Jordan quickly became a close disciple of Dominic and was entrusted with leadership roles almost immediately. His piety, wisdom, and administrative skill made him a natural leader within the young Order.
Master of the Order and Expansion of the Dominicans
In 1222, a year after the death of St. Dominic, Jordan was elected as the Master General of the Dominican Order. He proved to be an extraordinary leader, expanding the Order significantly. Under his guidance:
- The number of Dominican provinces increased from 8 to 12.
- The Order spread rapidly across Europe, particularly in Germany, France, and Hungary.
- He personally recruited numerous men to the Order, including the great St. Albert the Great.
- He established the tradition of sending Dominican friars to universities to both study and preach, ensuring that the Order remained intellectually strong.
Jordan was known for his gentle yet persuasive manner, attracting many young scholars to the Order through his preaching and personal example. He was often described as having a radiant joy, and his charity endeared him to many.
Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary
Jordan had a deep devotion to Our Lady and is often credited with spreading the practice of the recitation of the Salve Regina after Compline in Dominican communities. His letters and spiritual writings reveal a tender love for Mary, whom he saw as the special protectress of the Order.
Writings and Spiritual Legacy
Among his writings, his “Libellus de Initiis Ordinis Praedicatorum” (Book on the Beginnings of the Order of Preachers) is the most famous. It provides invaluable historical insights into the early days of the Dominicans and the virtues of St. Dominic. Jordan’s letters, filled with spiritual advice, reveal his deep understanding of the interior life and his pastoral heart.
Martyrdom by Shipwreck
Jordan died tragically in 1237 when the ship he was traveling on sank off the coast of Syria, near Acre. His death was considered a kind of martyrdom, as he perished while on a mission to further the Order’s expansion in the Holy Land.
Beatification and Veneration
Though never formally canonized, Blessed Jordan was beatified by Pope Leo XII in 1825. His feast day is celebrated on February 13. The Dominicans honor him as one of their greatest early leaders, second only to St. Dominic himself.
Conclusion
Blessed Jordan of Saxony remains an inspirational figure in the Dominican Order, remembered for his holiness, missionary zeal, and ability to inspire countless vocations. His life exemplifies the Dominican motto: “Contemplare et contemplata aliis tradere”—to contemplate and to hand on to others the fruits of contemplation.