Shortly after his ordination as a Capuchin priest in 1582, St. Laurence began preaching with great success throughout north Italy. This ministry came to characterize his life of service. 804 of his homilies have survived, which reflect a deep, sensitive, and practical understanding of Scripture. “For the word of God is a light to the mind and a fire to the will,” he once said. “It enables man to know God and to love him.” Over two decades St. Laurence held various offices in the Capuchin Order, including a term as minister general. Through his preaching and leadership St. Laurence made a significant contribution to the Catholic Reformation. Pope Pius XII named him a Doctor of the Church in 1959.
