We all know Saint Camillus de Lellis because there is no hospital without an image of him. Together with Saint John of God, in fact, he is the patron saint of the sick, nurses, and hospitals. But how much do we really know about him? Seeing the large red cross on his chest immediately makes us think of a life devoted to his brothers through generous dedication and selfless love for others. And perhaps we believe that, because he was a saint, he lived his vocation without the difficulties that we face and endure every day. But that is not quite how it was…
A turbulent youth
Camillo was born in Bucchianico (Chieti) on May 25, 1550, into a family of the Abruzzese aristocracy. Despite his privileged status, he lost himself in gambling and brawls. He spent his youth in taverns and, when sober, followed his father to military garrisons, becoming a soldier of fortune. His disordered life and gambling addiction dragged him into poverty. Today, we would say, without fear of contradiction, that he became homeless: he lived on the streets and wandered aimlessly.
A profound conversion
His wandering leads him, around 1575, to the Capuchin Convent in Manfredonia, where the friars welcome him as a jack-of-all-trades. Thus begins his profound conversion. Because of a wound to his foot, he has to be admitted to San Giacomo degli Incurabili Hospital in Rome, and it is precisely here that he discovers his vocation. He dedicates himself to serving the sick and later becomes bursar and house manager.
Serving the least
At San Giacomo Hospital, the most desperate cases, those deemed hopeless, those rejected by everyone else, are “parked” as though they were packages. In his constant contact with society’s “outcasts,” Camillo becomes involved in a movement of self-giving and self-sacrifice that leads him, in 1582, to found the Company of Ministers of the Sick together with five companions.
His work spread when he moved to the convent of the Church of La Maddalena and also began caring for patients at the Santo Spirito in Sassia hospital, still in Rome.
The Order of Clerks Regular, Ministers of the Sick is founded
In Rome, Camillus had the joy of studying under the holy guidance of Philip Neri and consecrating himself to God; in 1591, the Company of Ministers of the Sick received ecclesiastical approval and became known as the Order of Clerks Regular, Ministers of the Sick.
Camillus asks that, together with the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience, his sons take a fourth vow: to care for the sick even at the risk of their lives.
The “Rules for Properly Serving the Sick”
Camillus's work is a true revolution. In fact, in his time, “the incurable” were entrusted to criminals who, having to serve sentences, were forced to work in these hospitals, which, before the Saint's arrival, were veritable hells.
Camillus writes the “Rules for Properly Serving the Sick,” emphasizing the importance of love, patience, and dedication when caring for patients. Even today, this text is an indispensable guide for those called to care for the sick.
He also calls on his fellow brothers to obtain suitable scientific training so they can respond as effectively as possible to the situations they encounter.
Saint Camillus de Lellis died on July 14, 1614, yet even today his Order carries out essential work throughout the world. His legacy continues to inspire those who work in the healthcare field, and his example remains a constant source of encouragement for young people who feel called to devote their lives to serving sick and needy fellow human beings.
