4th April - Saint Benedict the African - Independent Catholic News

4th April - Saint Benedict the African - Independent Catholic News: Laybrother. Born in Sicily in 1526, of African slave parents, St Benedict was freed by his owner at a young age. When he was 21 some Franciscan hermits saw him being publicly insulted because of his colour. They were impressed by the dignified and patient way he endured being taunted, and invited to join their group. In time he became their leader. When the group dispersed, in around 1564, he joined the Franciscan Friars at Palermo, as a laybrother, working in the kitchens.