The Passing of Saint Benedict

March 21 – The Passing of St. Benedict –

He died at Monte Cassino, Italy, while standing in prayer to God. According to tradition, this occurred on March 21, 547. Gregory the Great tells us: “On the sixth day he [Benedict] had his disciples carry him into the chapel. There he fortified himself against death by receiving the Lord’s Body and Blood. As he supported his weak limbs with the help of his disciples, he stood with hands raised to heaven and drew his last breath while praying.”