Saint Homobonus

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Saint Homobonus, born Omobono Tucenghi, was a 12th‑century cloth merchant from Cremona in northern Italy. He and his wife lived simply and used much of their wealth to help people in need. He was devoted to mercy, cared for the poor, and even helped bury the abandoned dead. A legend says that when he gave food to a beggar, he refilled his water flask and the water turned into wine. He prayed nightly at the church of Saint Giles, staying there until the morning Mass. He died on November 13, 1197.

Pope Innocent III canonized him on January 12, 1199, at Cremona’s request, calling him “father of the poor” and “consoler of the afflicted.” He is the patron saint of Cremona, as well as merchants, tailors, shoemakers, and clothworkers. His body is kept in a crypt under Cremona Cathedral, which was dedicated to him in 1592. Cremona named him the city’s patron in 1643. His feast day is November 13.

Places named after him include Sant’Omobono in Rome and Sant’Omobono Terme. There is also a Saint Homobonus Hospital in Freetown, Sierra Leone.