Aldebrandus of Fossombrone

Saint Aldebrandus, also known as Hildebrand, was born around 1119, most likely in Sorrivoli near Roncofreddo in Italy. Formed in faith and learning by the canons of Santa Maria de Porto near Ravenna, he was ordained a priest and soon became provost of the cathedral chapter in Rimini. There his fearless preaching called people away from sinful living and back to the Gospel. His courage, however, stirred opposition among the powerful, and threats against his life forced him to flee. In 1170 Aldebrandus was appointed Bishop of Fossombrone. As a shepherd of souls he labored to strengthen the Church, and he oversaw the building of the cathedral, where his relics are still venerated. Tradition also remembers his humble fidelity to penance: when ill and confined to bed on a fast day, he prayed over a cooked partridge brought to him, and it was restored to life and flew away—an image of obedience offered with trust in God. He is honored as patron of Fossombrone and Sorrivoli. His feast day is May 1.