Saint Ubald of Gubbio

Saint Ubald of Gubbio is also known as Ubaldo Baldassini. He was a bishop in Italy in the 1100s. He is remembered for his kindness, strong faith, and calm spirit. People came to him for help when there was trouble in the city. He is one of the most loved saints in that region.

Ubald lived during a time of fighting and unrest. Cities often had problems with powerful families fighting for control. Ubald worked hard to keep peace in Gubbio. He was not afraid to speak up for what was right. He often walked into dangerous situations to stop people from fighting.

Many people looked up to Ubald. He was gentle and firm at the same time. He lived simply and prayed often. People believed he had healing gifts. They said he could drive out evil and bring peace to those who were troubled.

Ubald is honored as a saint in the Catholic Church. His feast day is May 16. People still pray to him for healing and peace. He is the patron saint of Gubbio and is also called on for protection against evil and mental illness.

Ubald was born around the year 1085 in Gubbio, Italy. He came from a noble family. His parents died when he was young, so he was raised by an uncle who was a priest. This helped guide him toward the Church. He spent much of his youth in prayer and study.

As a young man, he joined a group of canons who lived under the Rule of St. Augustine. He wanted to live a life focused on prayer and service. He gave up wealth and comfort. He chose to live simply and to serve others.

Ubald was known for being honest and kind. He avoided arguments and always tried to listen. People began to notice his calm and wise way of speaking. Even though he was quiet, he became a leader among the canons.

He did not seek power or praise. But people trusted him. When the bishop of Gubbio died, many wanted Ubald to take his place. At first, he did not want the job. But he finally agreed, seeing it as a way to serve God and the people.

As bishop, Ubald did not live in luxury. He kept a simple life. He gave most of what he had to the poor. He spent his time visiting people, helping the sick, and praying. He cared for everyone, rich or poor.

Gubbio had many problems during that time. Families fought each other, and soldiers threatened the city. Ubald worked hard to stop the violence. He often went out alone to speak with leaders and angry crowds. People listened to him because they trusted him.

Ubald also helped reform the Church in his area. He wanted priests to live good and honest lives. He asked them to pray more and serve the people better. He also cared about the poor and made sure the Church helped them.

He led by example. He did not ask others to do things he would not do himself. He prayed often and fasted. He walked through the city to visit the sick. He comforted the sad and forgave those who had done wrong.

Many people believed that Ubald had healing gifts. They said he cured the sick and helped people who were troubled in mind or spirit. Some said he could drive out evil. He never made a show of these things. He always gave the credit to God.

People from outside Gubbio came to see him. They came for help, for prayer, or just to hear his advice. He welcomed everyone with kindness. He listened more than he spoke. Many left feeling more at peace.

Ubald never acted proud. He stayed humble even when people praised him. He often spent long hours in prayer. He asked God for wisdom to guide the people. Even during hard times, he stayed calm.

Toward the end of his life, he became sick and weak. Still, he kept serving. He gave his last energy to his people. He died in 1160. The people of Gubbio mourned deeply. They knew they had lost a good shepherd.

Ubald was quickly loved as a saint by the people. Many said they received healing through his prayers. His tomb became a place of prayer. Over time, the Church recognized his holiness. Pope Celestine III officially named him a saint in 1192.

His feast day is May 16. On that day, Gubbio holds a large celebration. One famous tradition is the “Corsa dei Ceri,” a race held in his honor. It is a joyful day with prayer, music, and food.

Ubald is the patron saint of Gubbio. He is also called on for help with mental illness, epilepsy, and protection from evil. People ask him to bring peace to homes and cities. His life reminds us to stay calm, trust God, and care for others.

Even today, many people look to Saint Ubald for peace and healing. His story shows how a quiet life, filled with faith, can make a big difference.