Saint Pammachius

Saint Pammachius was born in Rome to a noble family, likely among the ancient Furii, and was formed in the best education of his day, studying rhetoric alongside his boyhood friend Saint Jerome. Rising to high public office, he became a Roman senator and later proconsul. In 385 he married Paulina, daughter of the devout matron Paula of Rome, and together they moved within a circle of Christians who defended the faith in a time of controversy. When Paulina died in childbirth in 397, Pammachius’ grief became a turning point of conversion. After honoring her with generous alms for the poor, he withdrew from worldly ambition and devoted himself to prayer, penance, and works of mercy. With Saint Fabiola he built a great guest-house at Porto, welcoming pilgrims and the needy at the mouth of the Tiber. He also served the Church through thoughtful correspondence, supporting Jerome’s biblical work and urging unity against schism. Though never ordained, he is venerated for his charity and steadfast faith. He is patron of Piadena. His feast day is August 30.