Born in 1246 in Sant’ Angelo, Italy, Nicholas became an Augustinian friar at the age of 18 after hearing an Augustinian hermit preach. He was ordained seven years later and quickly gained a reputation as a great preacher and confessor.
He practiced severe mortifications and fasted strictly. He was known for obtaining healings for many of the sick who lived in Tolentino, where he spent the last 30 years of his life.
St. Nicholas’ bread, a roll of dough with a cross in the center, has its origin in the bread he used to give to the sick to eat after he had prayed for the Virgin Mary’s healing intercession.
St. Nicholas died September 10, 1306 and was canonized by Pope Eugene IV in 1446.
Special Thanks to the Catholic News Agency for supplying the information on this saint.
