Sebastian Maggi was a 15th-century Italian Dominican priest born in Brescia to a noble family. A highly intelligent theologian, he rose through the ranks of the Order of Preachers to lead several religious houses. He is notably remembered for his role as the spiritual director and confessor to prominent figures, including the famous friar Girolamo Savonarola and Catherine of Genoa. Throughout his career, he was known for his strict discipline and his commitment to corporal mortification.
Life and career
After joining the Dominican Order in 1429, Maggi earned a master's degree in theology. He served as the Vicar-General of the Lombard Congregation, a position that led to a conflict with Savonarola regarding the control of the San Marco facility in Florence. Pope Alexander VI eventually appointed him to oversee the monastery. He died in Genoa in 1496 and was interred at the Santa Maria di Castello complex.
Veneration
Maggi was beatified by Pope Clement XIII in 1760. In the Catholic tradition, his feast day is observed on December 16. His remains, which were found to be incorrupt in 1963, are located in Genoa.