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Saint13th century · Feast July 15

St Bonaventure

Also known as Bonaventure of Bagnoregio, Giovanni di Fidanza, Seraphic Doctor

Cardinal bishop
Doctor of the Church
Franciscan theologian

A Franciscan theologian and leader who joined rigorous study with contemplation and wonder before creation.

Pray with St Bonaventure

A short prayer

God of grace, through the intercession of St Bonaventure, guide us in faith, courage and love. Amen.

The story of their life

A Franciscan theologian and leader who joined rigorous study with contemplation and wonder before creation. Medieval universities brought theology into dialogue with philosophy while mendicant orders debated identity and poverty.

Historical context

Medieval universities brought theology into dialogue with philosophy while mendicant orders debated identity and poverty.

Defining moments

  • Entering the Franciscans
  • Teaching in Paris
  • Leading the order
  • Writing the Journey of the Mind to God

Faith and spirituality

Study ordered toward contemplation, wonder and Franciscan humility.

Why this saint matters today

Strong match for theology students, academics and Franciscan users.

Patronage and intercession

People turn to St Bonaventure in matters of:

Theologians
Franciscan scholars
Students

Sources and further reading

  • https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints.html
  • https://www.liturgyoffice.org.uk/Calendar/

Source-quality status: unverified prototype

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