Bernardin (Ital Bernardino), St

Bernardin (Ital. Bernardino), St.

of Sienna, descended from the distinguished family Albiceschi, was born Sept. 8, 1380, at Massa-Carrara, and entered the Franciscan order in 1404. He became one of the boldest and most famous preachers against the prevailing corruptions of the times; was appointed in 1438 vicar-general of his order, and successfully exerted himself for the restoration of the strict monastic rule. He died in 1444 at Aquila, where his relic's are Still kept, and was canonized in 1450. He is commemorated by the Roman Church on May 20. His works are mostly of a mystical character; among them is a commentary on the Revelation. His complete works have been often published (Ven. 1591, 4 vols. 4to; Paris, 1636, 5 vols. fol.; Ven. 1745, 5 vols. fol.).