Blessed Bernard Scammacca

Friar and Priest

Blessed Bernard was born in Sicily in the year 1430. As a young man he suffered a serious leg wound which became the means of his conversion from a life of dissipation. He entered the Order in 1452 and strove to conform himself to Christ crucified through works of charity, acts of penance and contemplation of the Passion. Bernard was especially known for his care of the sick and the poor and he established a hospital to serve them. He promoted the regular life in the Order and was a gifted preacher. He died on January 11, 1487.

The Dominican friars are called to preach the Gospel in every age and in every place it is needed. Through preaching, teaching, pastoral ministry, and the formation of new friars, they work to bring the truth of Christ to a world searching for meaning and hope.

Reflections like this one are made possible because of the faithful support of friends like you. Your generosity helps sustain the friars in their mission to proclaim the Gospel, serve the Church, and form future preachers of the faith.

Support the preaching mission of the Dominican friars and help ensure that the light of the Gospel continues to reach hearts for generations to come.