Blessed Leopold of Gaiche

(2nd April)

Leopoldo Croci, who came from Gaiche, near Chiusi, joined the Franciscan Order in 1752 and rose to become Provincial Minister.  He retired to San Francesco di Monteluco in 1788.  His retreat was closed under the Napoleonic legislation of 1809 and he took refuge at San Damiano, Assisi.  He was able to return to Monteluco in 1814 and was buried there when he died in the following year at the age of 83.  Pope Leo XIII beatified him in 1893.  His relics are still venerated in the chapel at San Francesco di Monteluco that is dedicated to him.