St. Guy (Vignotelli) of Cortona, Priest

Nothing is known about the birth and early life of St. Guy. He was a devout young Christian of Cortona.  He worked with his hands to supplement an inheritance and gave to the poor whatever he did not need for his own use.  He provided hospitality in 1211 to St. Francis of Assisi and one of his companions on his first visit to Cortona. 

At the end of their common meal St. Guy asked to become a member of the followers of the Seraphic Saint.  When told that he would have to abandon everything, rising from the table, he immediately arranged for the sale of his possessions; then together with his guests distributed all of his proceeds as alm.  He became a Franciscan and occupied a small cell on a bridge over a stream. 

Since he was a well-educated man, he was ordained to the priesthood.  He showed great holiness, powerful eloquence, and extraordinary gifts to his people. He performed miracles – one of which was raising back to life, a girl who had drowned.  He died at the age of 60 about 1245, after receiving a vision of St. Francis coming once again to Cortona, this time to lead him to paradise!

PRAYER: Lord God, You alone are holy and no one is good without You. Through the intercession of St. Guy help us to live in such a way that we may not be deprived of a shame in Your glory. Amen.