St. Michael de Sanctis
Saint Michael de Sanctis
When they lived: St. Michael de Sanctis, also known as St. Miguel de los Santos, lived from September 29, 1591, to April 10, 1625.
Where they lived: St. Michael de Sanctis was born in the town of Valladolid, located in present-day Spain. He spent a significant part of his life in various monastic communities.
Notable world events during the time of their life:
- Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648): This prolonged conflict in Europe had significant political and religious ramifications, impacting various regions and powers across the continent.
- Scientific Revolution: During St. Michael de Sanctis’ lifetime, the Scientific Revolution was unfolding. This period saw a surge in scientific discoveries, including the development of the telescope by Galileo Galilei, the formulation of Kepler’s laws of planetary motion, and advancements in anatomy and physics.
- Exploration and Colonization: The Age of Exploration was continuing during St. Michael de Sanctis’ time, with European nations exploring and colonizing new lands. The establishment of settlements in the Americas, Africa, and Asia was reshaping global geopolitics and trade.
- English Civil War (1642-1651): While St. Michael de Sanctis passed away before the conflict began, his lifetime witnessed the early tensions that eventually led to the English Civil War, which had profound effects on England’s political and social landscape.
- Foundation of Harvard University: In 1636, Harvard University was established in Massachusetts, USA, becoming the oldest institution of higher education in the United States. This event marked a significant step in the development of education in the New World.
Their patronage: St. Michael de Sanctis is known as the patron saint of those struggling with temptation, mental illness, and mental disorders. He is often invoked by individuals seeking strength to overcome inner struggles, anxiety, and emotional turmoil. St. Michael de Sanctis’ own experiences of inner battles and his unwavering faith make him a relatable and inspiring figure for those facing similar challenges.
Making it interesting: In an era characterized by global conflicts, scientific advancements, and the expansion of empires, St. Michael de Sanctis’ story stands out as a beacon of hope and resilience. Born in a small town in Spain, he navigated the tumultuous world around him while grappling with his own inner demons. At a time when exploration and curiosity were reshaping the understanding of the natural world, St. Michael embarked on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. His struggles with temptation and mental turmoil mirror the broader societal upheavals of his time, making him a relatable figure for modern individuals wrestling with their own internal conflicts.
Early Life
Saint Michael de Sanctis, also known as Michael of the Saints to many,might have lived a brief life but left a large impact on the Church.
He spent his life living in piety and holiness.
Saint Michael was born Michael Argemir. He was born on September 29, 1591, in Vic, Spain. His parents, Enrique Argemir and Monserrat Margarita Mitjana, played vital roles in his quest for spirituality.
From a very young age, Saint Michael was dedicated to Christianity. He made sure to pray, fast, and even vow to remain a virgin.
When he was 6 years old, Saint Michael told his parents about his interest in becoming a monk. They saw how dedicated he was to religion and agreed to his wishes.
Saint Michael’s mother informed him about Saint Francis of Assisi. Michael was so impressed by the Saint’s piety that he tried to emulate him.
Even at a young age, Saint Michael began to practice mortification. He prayed for long hours, fasted for days at a time, and was even said to have restrained himself from eating meat.
Although his parents were impressed, they grew alarmed at his extremes and restrained him.
Some years later, but still at a young age, Saint Michael was orphaned. This caused him to be much closer to God than he had initially been.
Saint Michael was taken to serve as an apprentice to a trader after his parents died.
Dedication and Devotion
Saint Michael de Sanctis excelled at work. He spent his free time praying, meditating, preaching, and even helping the needy.
When he was twelve years old, Circa 1603, he came to Barcelona on a quest to become a part of the Trinitarians. After spending three years with the Trinitarian Friars, he took his vows in Saint-Lambert Church in Zaragoza around 1607.
It was with the Trinitarians that he assumed the name Michael de Sanctis.
He enjoyed his practice until he met with a Discalced Trinitarian priest one day. Saint Michael was awed by their strict practices and sought to become a priest himself.
After receiving permission from his superior, Saint Michael joined the Church of the Discalced Trinitarians. He said his vows at Alcalá, after which he was made to undertake the education of the Friars.
He was ordained a priest and bestowed authority over the community.
Legacy
Saint Michael de Sanctis was revered for his humility, love for the people, and dedication to the Church.
Not only does tradition state that Saint Michael could pray the sick back to health, but some also claim he often slid into trances. During these trances, he was said to have been seen levitating on several occasions.
In one story set in Cordova, Saint Michael was reported to have been seen being lifted in the air above the choir stand, over a field, and coming to rest in the church tower. He was also said to have levitated in Salamanca.
These reports of levitation were said to have been indices of ecstasies during prayer. Even before his death, he was called a Saint by many.
Saint Michael was twice appointed Superior of the Monastery in Valladolid. He took on leadership with a strict yet humble hand.
Death and Canonization
Saint Michael de Sanctis died on April 10, 1625, at the age of 33. He passed away at the Valladolid monastery in the Kingdom of Spain.
Many miracles are attributed to Saint Michael, even after his death.
He received beatification from Pope Pius VI on May 24, 1779. He was canonized on June 8, 1862, by Pope Pius IX.
Saint Michael de Sanctis is celebrated every year on the day of his death by the Roman Catholic Church.
5 Interesting Facts About St. Michael de Sanctis
- Did you know that Saint Michael de Sanctis took a vow of chastity?
at the age of 8? - Did you know that Saint Michael was partial to the Rosary and the Virgin Mary?
Mary? - Did you know that Saint Michael is said to be one of the patron saints?
saints of cancer patients? - Did you know that in his death, Saint Michael was said to have cured
Frances Sanz of cancerous tumors? - Did you know that the town of Saint-Michel-des-Saints in Canada is
named after Saint Michael de Saints?
Prayer to St. Michael de Sanctis
O glorious Saint Michael, Seraph inflamed with the most ardent love of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, who did spend your nights and days in His Real Presence and did find there your dearest joys, so that you did swoon away for very love: vouchsafe, I pray to you, to obtain for me a lively faith, a firm hope, and an ardent love toward this inestimable Treasure, this precious Pledge of glory everlasting, in order that I may be able to behold Him face in an eternity of bliss. Amen.
Source:[https://www.catholicdoors.com/prayers/novenas/p03883.htm]{.ul}
