06/25/2026
Born in 1085 and raised as an orphan, St. William’s life became a beautiful testament to seeking God in silence, prayer, and humility. After completing a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, he chose the life of a hermit on Monte Vergine, Italy. 🏔️
His profound holiness quickly attracted a community of followers, leading to the creation of a monastery and the foundation of a new Benedictine congregation known as the Hermits of Monte Vergine (or the Williamites).
When his strict and austere way of life caused disagreements among the monks, St. William chose the path of peace. He peacefully stepped aside and, under the protection of King Roger of Naples, went on to found several more monasteries throughout the region before passing away in 1142. 🕊️
St. William’s life reminds us that even when conflicts or unexpected changes redirect our paths, God can use those moments to plant seeds for an even greater harvest.
This image depicts 'The Miracle of the Wolf'
The story goes that while St. William was building his first monastery and church on the rugged mountains of Monte Vergine, he had no heavy machinery or human crew—just his own two hands and a single, loyal donkey that he used to haul heavy stones and wood up the mountain.
One night, a wild wolf came out of the forest, attacked the donkey, and killed it. Instead of panic or anger, St. William confronted the predatory wolf. He fiercely scolded the beast for interrupting God's work and commanded the wolf to take the donkey's place. Miraculously, the wild wolf became completely tame. It bowed its head in submission, allowed itself to be harnessed, and spent the rest of its days peacefully hauling heavy building materials up the mountain for the monks.
