for September 17
Memorial of St. Robert Bellarmine

Every so often in the wide span of Christian history an extraordinary person comes along and contributes significantly to the faith. Saint Robert Bellarmine (1542-1621) is such a person. He was born in Tuscan region of Italy in a small city of Montepulciano—a place we may immediately recognize for its wonderful red wine. Robert went on to become one of the leading thinkers and leaders of the Church of his day. He joined the Jesuits in 1560 and in 1570 was appointed professor of theology in Louvain. Robert was later named bishop, cardinal, and after his death was recognized as a saint and Doctor of the Church.

Robert lived during a time of great controversy as the Reformation was underway across Europe. During these years he was appointed professor of ‘controversial theology’ at the Roman College. His teaching and writings were well-versed in scripture and he became a leading voice in the theological debates that raged on in his time. Michael Fahey SJ, a friend of mine who has studied and written about Bellarmine once observed about the saint: “[Bellarmine] was a controversial yet innovative theologian who stressed biblical and patristic sources to refute Reformation doctrines. In the service of the church, he designed the Gregorian calendar, undertook dangerous travels as papal advisor, and in defense of Galileo, urged moderation. Had he not at papal conclaves several times refused election, he would have been the first Jesuit pope already in the 17th century.” Historians have noted that Robert ‘almost’ became the first Jesuit pope—discussions about this have continued in recent years since the election of Pope Francis. It has been said that Robert was so smart and persuasive in debate that on three occasions he was able to talk the other cardinals in the conclave out of electing him to the papacy. This is a very interesting twist in history for a Christian who lived in an extraordinary age—as do we.

Scholars of this period have observed that Bellarmine debated Protestant theologians with much fervor. But he also did so with charity and respect. It is reported that he prayed for his intellectual opponents and never became involved in personal attacks—perhaps a needed lesson for us in this election year. Bellarmine wrote an influential catechism that was widely read far into the 19^th century. He was highly noted as a preacher and was a devoted pastor. After he accepted election as a bishop Bellarmine showed great care and devotion leading a local diocese (preaching each week and attracting large crowds) until he was called back to Rome to serve as a close trusted advisor to the popes.

What might we learn from someone like Robert Bellarmine in our own time in the church and in the world? First, Bellarmine served the faith and the church in his time. He tried to help the faith and he served the community of believers even accepting roles that he would not choose himself. Second, Robert was devoted deeply to the intellectual life. I imagine that he always recognized that our faith needs to be continually ‘in search of’ understanding. The Catholic tradition for many centuries teaches us that both faith and reason are essential. Third, Bellarmine can inspire us by the devotion and simplicity of his Jesuit life and his deep care for the poor. There are stories that after his election as cardinal he gave away vestments and the elaborate curtains of his residence to be used for clothing for the poor. Another story noted that the bishop’s ring regularly had to be recovered from the local pawn shop. Robert would trade this in for funds in order to help the poor. Robert was a person of virtue and humility. Those who knew him report that he personally behaved, thought, and wrote with a deep sense of balance and fairness. He lived in a time of great division and conflict. So, do we. The life of a saint like Robert Bellarmine can teach us a great deal as we seek to honestly live our own faith in this age.
–Francis T. Hannafey SJ

Today’s readings can be found on the US Conference of Catholic Bishops’ website.

Photographed statue is of Robert Bellarmine SJ at Fairfield University.