The Feast of St. Gregory Barbarigo

Born in Venice in 1625 he was the oldest of four children and his parents, Giovanni and Lucrecia, were nobles. 

But his mother died when he was still young and his father’s cousins stepped in to raise the children. 

Gregory was a young man filled with faith and blessed, intellectually. 

By his early 20s, he’d already proven his value in civil matters and was invited to accompany the Venetian Ambassador to Germany for the negotiation of the Peace of Westphalia, which brought an end to several conflicts including the 30 Years War. 

While he enjoyed much success, Gregory did not care for the world of politics. At one point, he even considered becoming a hermit but, after seeking spiritual guidance, he decided instead to become a priest, and finish his studies in law. 

In 1655, he was ordained and received degrees in both Canon and Civil law. 

Just two years later, he was elected Bishop of Bergamo and then was elevated to Cardinal by Pope Alexander VII. 

Known for his wisdom and understanding of scripture, Gregory was an outstanding leader and an important figure in the institution of the reforms called for by The Council of Trent. 

He expanded the seminaries in Bergamo and also Padua, which had grown considerably under his leadership. He also added a library and printing press. 

Gregory died on this day in 1697. 

St. Gregory Barbarigo, please pray for us.