Baldassare Ravaschieri

Baldassare Ravaschieri was born in the Republic of Genoa in 1420 to nobles whose ancestors were the counts of Lavagna; his father was Count Cattaneo (d. 1421). His aunts Ginerva and Tobia - both Franciscan tertiaries - were responsible for his religious upbringing.[2]

He entered the convent of the Order of Friars Minor not too far from his home in Genoa where he became noted for being a good theologian and a model religious while also acting as a zealous confessor. He was also known for his practice of mortifications. Ravaschieri also served as the order's superior and later its vicar provincial.[2] His studies for the priesthood were conducted at Santa Maria del Campo (where he earned his doctorate in theological studies)[3] before he was ordained as a priest.[1] Ravaschieri also suffered from gout which limited his movements and required him to sometimes be carried to Mass.

Ravaschieri also served as a preacher alongside Bernardine of Feltre.[1] He was a friend of the architect Giovanni Antonio Amadeo and the confessor of Veronica of Milan.[2] It was once said that on one winter night he had remained in the woods where it was snowing though the spot he was sitting in was without snow.[3]

He died on 17 October 1492. His relics were transferred to Pavia in 1805.[3]

The Diocese of Pavia initiated the cause for beatification that later resulted in the recognition of his 'cultus' (or popular following) which allowed for Pope Pius XI - on 8 January 1930 - to confirm his beatification.

• Hagiography Circle
• Saints SQPN