Saint Romuald was born in Ravenna, Italy, around 951 and became a Benedictine monk after witnessing his father kill a relative in a duel. He founded the Camaldolese order, combining monastic community life with the solitude of hermits, and spent decades establishing hermitages and monasteries across Italy. He died at Val di Castro in 1027.
Romuald shows that a restless heart can be transformed by silence and perseverance in prayer, as he sought God with ever greater simplicity throughout his long life. His example teaches us to make room for solitude with God even amid our busy lives, and that it is never too late to begin again on the path of holiness.
Lord, who called Saint Romuald to seek You in silence and solitude, grant us the grace to quiet our hearts and listen for Your voice. Amen.Enter today’s Mass → All saints →