Blessed Alberto of Sarteano: Ambassador of Faith and Peace
Blessed Alberto of Sarteano (1385–1450) was an Italian Franciscan friar, revered by the Catholic Church for his tireless work in preaching, diplomacy, and promoting unity among Christian Churches. A prominent figure in the Franciscan Observance movement, he is known for his commitment to preserving the spiritual legacy of Saint Francis and defending the Catholic Church during a time of significant change.
Early Life: Vocation and Humanistic Studies
Born in Sarteano in 1385, Alberto joined the Order of Friars Minor in 1405. A decade later, in 1415, he embraced the Observant reform movement promoted by figures such as Saint Bernardino of Siena. His spiritual and intellectual formation led him, in 1422, to study in Verona under the humanist Guarino Veronese. This experience enriched his preaching style, making him one of the most compelling preachers of his time.
In close collaboration with Saint Bernardino, Alberto spread the Gospel message in numerous Italian cities, including Modena and other major towns in Tuscany.
Diplomatic Missions and Preaching in the East
In 1434, Pope Eugene IV sent Alberto to the East to negotiate the union between the Catholic Church and the Greek Orthodox Church. During this mission, Alberto visited Jerusalem (1435) and later served as an interpreter at the Council of Florence (1439) thanks to his knowledge of Greek.
Subsequently, the pope entrusted him with negotiations involving other Eastern Churches, including the Syriac Jacobites, the Copts, and the Ethiopians. Around 1440, he likely began his second mission to the East, once again demonstrating his deep commitment to Christian unity.
Leadership Roles in the Franciscan Order
Alberto was not only a preacher and ambassador but also a key figure in the administration of the Franciscan Order. In 1442, he was elected Provincial Minister of the Venetian Province, a position confirmed by Pope Eugene IV. That same year, the pope appointed him Vicar General of the entire Order, tasking him with restoring discipline and reinforcing the observance of Franciscan poverty.
Despite his reforms, internal instability within the Order led to the election of another Vicar General in 1443, supported by Filippo Maria Visconti, and Alberto was forced to relinquish the role.
Commitment to the Crusade and Other Missions
In 1443, Pope Eugene IV gave Alberto a new mission: promoting a crusade against the Turks alongside Saint James of the Marches. This mission brought him to the Patriarchate of Aquileia and into contact with influential figures of the time, such as Francesco Barbaro in Brescia (1444) and Lionello d’Este, Marquis of Ferrara (1446).
In 1447, he retired to Milan, then under siege by Francesco Sforza, but he continued his work of preaching and spiritual support.
His Spiritual Legacy
Blessed Alberto of Sarteano dedicated his life to the Church, working tirelessly for Christian unity and spreading the Gospel message. Although never canonized, he is venerated as a blessed for his exemplary faith and devotion.
Blessed Alberto Today
The memory of Blessed Alberto of Sarteano is cherished by the Franciscan community and his hometown. His life serves as a testament to how faith can inspire dialogue, peace, and spiritual reform in challenging times.
To learn more about his story or visit the places associated with his legacy, contact our local tourism office or explore initiatives honoring his life.
