Bernard of Corleone was a 17th-century Sicilian Capuchin friar and priest born Filippo Latini. Before his religious conversion, he worked as a shoemaker and later served as a soldier known for his volatile temperament and skill with a blade. Following a violent duel that deeply affected him, he sought refuge with the Franciscan order. He underwent a radical transformation, dedicating his life to extreme penance, simplicity, and service to the poor, eventually becoming recognized for his profound gentleness and compassion.
Life and conversion
After his father's death, Filippo practiced the shoemaking trade before becoming a soldier. His reputation for quickness to duel led him to join the Capuchin order in 1632. Adopting the name Bernard, he practiced rigorous asceticism, including fasting and limited sleep. He moved between various Sicilian friaries, often serving as a cook or managing laundry, and was noted for providing food to the needy.
Veneration
Bernard died in Palermo in 1667. His path to sainthood included being declared Venerable in 1762 and beatified in 1768. After the validation of a miracle, Pope John Paul II canonized him in 2001. He is commemorated on January 12, and his grave has been a site of reported miracles.