Servite Order

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The Servite Order, also known as the Order of Servants of Mary, is a Roman Catholic mendicant order founded in Florence, Italy, in 1233. The order was established by a group of seven holy men, later known as the Seven Holy Founders, who dedicated themselves to a life of prayer and service to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Servite Order is one of the five original mendicant orders recognized by the Catholic Church.

History

The Servite Order was founded on the feast of the Assumption of Mary in 1233 by seven Florentine cloth merchants. These men, known as the Seven Holy Founders, were inspired by a vision of the Virgin Mary and decided to withdraw from their prosperous lives to live a life of penance and prayer. They initially settled on Monte Senario, a mountain near Florence, where they built a small chapel and hermitage.

In 1255, the order received papal approval from Pope Alexander IV, and in 1304, it was formally recognized by Pope Benedict XI. The order grew rapidly, establishing communities throughout Europe and later in the Americas and other parts of the world.

Charism and Mission

The primary charism of the Servite Order is devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, particularly in her sorrows. The order's mission includes promoting the Rosary and the Seven Sorrows of Mary devotion, as well as engaging in various forms of pastoral ministry, education, and social work.

Structure and Governance

The Servite Order is governed by a Prior General, who is elected by the General Chapter, the highest governing body of the order. The order is divided into provinces, each overseen by a Provincial Prior. Local communities are led by local priors.

Notable Members

• Saint Philip Benizi - A prominent early member who played a significant role in the expansion of the order.
• Saint Peregrine Laziosi - Known for his miraculous healing from cancer and is the patron saint of cancer patients.
• Blessed Joachim of Siena - A notable mystic and preacher.

Servite Saints and Blessed

The Servite Order has produced several saints and blessed individuals, including the Seven Holy Founders, Saint Philip Benizi, Saint Peregrine Laziosi, and Blessed Joachim of Siena.

Related Devotions

• Seven Sorrows of Mary
• Rosary
• Scapular of Our Lady of Sorrows

See Also

• Mendicant orders
• Roman Catholic religious orders
• Blessed Virgin Mary

External Links

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