Saint Camillus de Lellis, Priest

Camillus de Lellis was born in 1550 in Bucchianico, in the Kingdom of Naples. A large, restless man who had struggled with gambling and military life, he experienced conversion after years of instability and a chronic leg wound. His own suffering eventually led him to serve the sick in Roman hospitals, where he saw both physical misery and neglect.

Ordained a priest in 1584, Camillus founded the Ministers of the Sick, later known as the Camillians, who became known for serving the ill even during plague and war. He died in Rome in 1614 and was canonized in 1746. His feast honors healthcare ministry and reminds us that the sick are not burdens, but living icons of Christ in need of tenderness and dignity.

Prayer: Saint Camillus de Lellis, pray for the sick, caregivers, doctors, nurses, chaplains, and all who serve with compassion. Amen.