St. Allucio – October 23rd
This Italian Saint was a simple shepherd and herdsman who took great interest in an almshouse nearby. An almshouse was a “poor house” for those who could not support themselves. Allucio’s kind heart was moved to pity for these poor people and he did everything he could to help them. This was his way of showing his love for God.
Although he was just a shepherd, the Saint was put in charge of the almshouse, because the officials knew how much good he would do there. And they were not disappointed either. St. Allucio made so many improvements that it almost seemed a new place entirely. Next, the Saint noticed how badly some shelters were needed at places where people had to cross rivers, and at mountain passes. He saw to it that many were built and he put generous young men to run them for the benefit of all travelers. Later these good men were called Brothers of St. Allucio.
It seemed as if the Saint felt he could never do enough to make the world a better place to live in. He took care of still more projects such as building a bridge over a big river. He made peace, too, between two cities about to fight each other.
St. Allucio might have tended to his sheep and let other people face their own problems. But those who love God never do that. He made other peoples’ troubles his own and in this way, he grew very dear to God.
I will be ready when I see a need. I will help, even at the cost of sacrifice.
