A pivotal moment came when Jordan recovered from a serious illness, an experience that deepened his faith and led him to reject worldly ambitions. Despite his uncle’s disapproval, he felt a strong calling to monastic life, prompting him to flee and seek solitude in a forest. This bold decision marked the beginning of his journey toward holiness, reflecting his determination to follow God’s call above all else.
Jordan entered the Benedictine Order, joining the Monastery of Santa Maria di Pulsano, founded by Saint John of Matera (also known as John of Pulsano) in 1129 near Manfredonia, Apulia. The Pulsano congregation was a reform movement within the Benedictine tradition, emphasizing strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict, with a focus on asceticism, prayer, and communal living. As a spiritual student of Saint John, Jordan immersed himself in this rigorous lifestyle, dedicating himself to prayer, penance, and service.
Under Saint John’s guidance, Jordan grew in holiness and leadership, earning a reputation for wisdom and piety. His commitment to the Pulsano ideals prepared him for a significant role within the congregation, as he became a trusted disciple and collaborator in the monastery’s mission to renew monastic life in southern Italy.
Following Saint John of Matera’s death in 1139, Jordan was unanimously chosen as the abbot-general of the Pulsano congregation, a position he held from 1139 to approximately 1152. As abbot-general, he oversaw multiple monasteries, enforcing a principle of unity and dependence among them. He held the right of correction and visitation, ensuring that all adhered to the congregation’s strict standards. This system was sanctioned by popes, solidifying the Pulsano congregation’s influence.
Jordan’s leadership was marked by wisdom and sanctity. He navigated complex political and religious tensions, notably mediating a reconciliation between King Roger II of Sicily and Pope Innocent II. Roger, excommunicated after supporting an antipope, had captured Innocent in 1139. Jordan’s diplomatic efforts helped broker peace, with Roger acknowledging the pope’s authority, a testament to Jordan’s influence and commitment to Church unity. His governance strengthened the Pulsano congregation, making it a beacon of monastic reform.
Beyond his administrative duties, Jordan was a skilled diplomat and spiritual leader. His mission to King Roger II involved sending monks, including Joel, to the royal court, fostering goodwill after the reconciliation. Jordan’s ability to balance spiritual authority with practical diplomacy earned him respect among both ecclesiastical and secular leaders. His leadership extended to fostering spiritual growth among his monks, encouraging deep prayer and ascetic practices that reflected the Pulsano congregation’s ideals.
Jordan’s reputation for holiness grew, and he was venerated for his ability to guide others toward God. While specific miracles are not widely documented, his life of virtue and leadership inspired devotion, and his influence helped expand the Pulsano congregation’s reach across southern Italy.
Blessed Jordan of Pulsano died around 1152, likely at the Monastery of Santa Maria di Pulsano, of natural causes. Exact details of his death are scarce, but his passing was mourned by the monastic community he had led with such dedication. Soon after, he was venerated as a Blessed figure, recognized for his sanctity and contributions to the Church. His feast day is celebrated on September 5, a day to honor his legacy of faith and leadership.
The Monastery of Santa Maria di Pulsano, under Jordan’s guidance, became a lasting symbol of Benedictine reform, though it faced decline in later centuries. His relics, if preserved, would likely have been kept at Pulsano, but records of their fate are unclear due to historical disruptions like the monastery’s eventual abandonment.
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