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As we deepen our relationship with the Eternal Word, Jesus Christ, we grow in grace and are transformed by His love and mercy.
January 23, 1350–April 5, 1419
Patron Saint of builders, construction workers, prisoners, plumbers, fishermen, travelers, reconciliation, Spanish orphanages
St. Vincent Ferrer was an illustrious missionary and preacher of the late Middle Ages, whose life and ministry brought renewal during a time of deep division within the Church.
St. Vincent was born in Valencia, Spain, in 1350, and entered the Dominican Order at an early age. Gifted with a brilliant mind, St. Vincent studied theology and philosophy and became a Dominican priest, quickly earning respect as a teacher and preacher.
St. Vincent lived during the Western Schism, when multiple claimants to the papacy created scandal and confusion for the Church. Initially, he supported one claimant but later recognized his error and worked for unity and reform. The suffering caused by this division weighed heavily on St. Vincent and shaped the urgency of his preaching.
After recovering from a grave illness, St. Vincent experienced a renewed sense of mission. He dedicated himself entirely to preaching repentance and conversion, traveling on foot throughout Spain, France, Italy, Switzerland, and other parts of Europe. Large crowds gathered to hear him preach, often outdoors, as churches could not contain the multitudes.
St. Vincent preached with passion, urging people to turn away from sin and live according to the Gospel. Extraordinary conversions and numerous miracles, including healings and prophetic insight, often accompanied his ministry. Despite his fame, St. Vincent lived faithful to the Dominican vows of poverty, obedience, and prayer.
St. Vincent Ferrer died on April 5, 1419, in Vannes, France. He was canonized in 1455 and remains a powerful example of evangelical zeal and fidelity to Christ during times of crisis.
St. Vincent lived during the Western Schism when rival popes divided the Church. Initially, he supported the Avignon claimant, St. Benedict XII, believing his claim to be legitimate. Later, recognizing the harm caused by the division, St. Vincent publicly withdrew his support, and his humility in admitting error strengthened his credibility and witness. He advised King Ferdinand of Castile and Aragon to withdraw support for Benedict. St. Vincent’s efforts to persuade leaders toward reconciliation and unity are considered instrumental in finally ending the decades-long crisis.
St. Vincent was sometimes called the “Angel of the Apocalypse” because of the urgency and intensity of his preaching. He often spoke about repentance and the need for conversion, drawing from Scripture to awaken consciences. He urged listeners to return to God’s mercy. St. Vincent was seen as a prophetic messenger sent to warn humanity of the coming Judgment. His intense, fiery preaching focused on repentance, the end times, and the Last Judgment, which he delivered across Europe.
Numerous miracles were attributed to St. Vincent Ferrer during his lifetime and after his death. These included healings, exorcisms, and extraordinary conversions. Many believed he possessed the gift of tongues. Witnesses testified that people of many languages understood his preaching. He is one of the most prolific miracle-workers in Catholic history, with more than eight hundred documented miracles, including raising more than 28 people from the dead. He cured the lame, lepers, the blind, and the deaf simply by touching them. According to accounts, he delivered more than 70 people from demonic possession.
This eBook combines stunning photography from EWTN’s Vatican Bureau along with Bible passages and saints’ quotes that will calm your heart, give you hope, and remind you that God is with us always. Simply fill out the form below and we will send this to you!
Fr. Charles Connor discusses the establishment of the Dominican Order in America, tracing their history and their arrival in New York to the founding of the Church of St. Vincent Ferrer.
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As we deepen our relationship with the Eternal Word, Jesus Christ, we grow in grace and are transformed by His love and mercy.
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