Born: 1197, Giovinazzo, near Bari, Italy Died: February 11-16, 1256, Perugia Beatified: March 26, 1828 by Pope Leo XII Feast: February 16
Angelic Vision and Noble Birth
Born to Judge Lupone and his noble family, young Nicola received a vision of an angel commanding him to abstain from meat forever, as he would join a religious order with perpetual abstinence.
Meeting Saint Dominic (1218)
While studying law at Bologna University, Nicola heard Saint Dominic preach in 1218. Immediately captivated, he joined the Order and received the habit from Saint Dominic's own hands, becoming one of the founder's faithful traveling companions.
Apostolic Ministry
- Powerful Preacher: Evangelized throughout Italy with miracles confirming his words
- Provincial Superior: Twice elected Provincial of the vast Roman Province (Tuscany to Sicily) - 1230-35 and 1255
- Founder: Established Dominican houses in Perugia, Trani, and possibly Todi
- Biblical Scholar: Promoted Scripture study and compiled biblical Concordances
- Papal Mission: Commissioned by Pope Gregory IX to preach Crusade against Saracens
- Reformer: Appointed by Gregory IX to reform overly strict Benedictines at Sant'Antimo
Spiritual Leadership
Prudent, charitable, and compassionate, Nicola preached fraternal charity and joy, asking for willing, loving obedience. A deceased friar once appeared to him seeking forgiveness for causing discord.
Death and Veneration
Spent final years in prayer at Perugia's Dominican monastery. Died 1256; relics rest under the high altar of San Domenico, Perugia. Fra Angelico depicted him with rods (authority), book (learning), and church models (founder).
May Blessed Nicola intercede for preachers and biblical scholars!
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