Celestine V

Saint Celestine V was born as Pietro Angelerio around 1209–1215 in the rural region of Molise in the Kingdom of Sicily, likely at Sant’Angelo Limosano. Drawn early to prayer and learning, he entered the Benedictine life as a young man, yet his heart longed for greater solitude. Retreating to the mountains of Morrone and later the remote Maiella, he lived as a hermit of striking austerity, gathering disciples and gaining a reputation for holiness. From this hidden life he founded the Celestines, a reforming branch of the Benedictines marked by simplicity and strict observance. After a long papal deadlock, the cardinals unexpectedly elected the humble hermit pope in 1294. Crowned Celestine V, he granted a plenary indulgence to pilgrims at Santa Maria di Collemaggio and confirmed that a pope may resign. Recognizing his own limitations, he abdicated after five months, desiring to return to prayer. Imprisoned to prevent political misuse, he died on May 19, 1296, and was later canonized. He is patron of Isernia, Pratola Peligna, Sant’Angelo Limosano, and Villamiel. His feast day is May 19.