After following a theme for some time, I realised that a number of "one-offs" were very deserving of a mention in this blog. And where better to start than Peter Orseolo (928-927) - a role model for masculine Christianity.
His life reads rather like an novel. Adventure, intrigue, unusual twists in the plot, it's all there. He was a nobleman from Venice and even as a youth had a reputation for strength. So, when Venice needed a commander to lead a fleet against the pirates who terrorised the Adriatic, they chose Orseolo - aged only 20. And he won, sweeping the marauders from Venetian shores.
In 976 there were riots in Venice. The Doge (the chief magistrate and ruler of Venice) was murdered and a large part of the city was destroyed by fire. A strong and competent leader was needed, so whom did they choose? Peter Orseolo was made the new Doge and set about the huge task of reconstruction.
He showed himself a remarkable statesman and one of the greatest rulers of Venice. He made peace between enemies. He built hospitals and set up social programs to care for widows, orphans and pilgrims. He began rebuilding St Mark's Cathedral, icon of the city.
Then, in September 978, at the height of his powers, he disappeared! Not even his wife and son knew where he was. An extensive search finally traced him to a Benedictine monastery on the border of France and Spain. Had he felt crushed by responsibilities? Perhaps, but he revealed later that God had been troubling his heart for 10 years aver the call to renounce everything to be a disciple of Jesus Christ.
Orseolo cut himself off from all his past life and achievements and put himself under the guidance of the abbot of Cuxa, dedicating himself to prayer. But the lion did not altogether become a lamb! He brought to the monastery his fighting spirit, attracting spiritual brothers and sons by his steely determination and innate leadership charisma.
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