Simon came from the small town of Lipnica, not far from Kraków in Poland. Moved by the preaching of St John Capistran, he joined the Franciscans and was ordained. His eloquence had a profound effect on many and his motto of “Pray, work and hope” inspired his friars as well. He had the title of official preacher in the Wawel Cathedral in Kraków. In 1482, an epidemic broke out in Poland. Simon ministered assiduously to the sick, contracted the disease himself and died. He was canonised by Benedict XVI in 2007.
First Reading: Eccles. 2: 7-13; Gospel: Mt. 11: 25-30
