Feast of Blessed Bartholomew Fanti

Although no longer included within the Discalced Carmelite Calendar, the optional memorial of Blessed Bartholomew Fanti is still observed by the Carmelites of the Ancient Observance (O.Carm.).

Collect

O God, you made Blessed Bartholomew 
renowned for his devotion to your most holy Eucharist
and his fidelity to religious observance: 
grant that by his intercession and example, 
we may be detached from things of earth, 
cling to you alone, and love you perfectly. 
This we ask of you, Lord Jesus,
living and reigning with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.  Amen.

Lesson iii

Bartholomew was born at Mantua. Proficient in both virtues and studies, he merited to experience the grace of a religious vocation, through the assistance of the most Blessed Virgin. Entering the Carmelite Order, he proved himself patient and humble. As priest and preacher, he spared no labor in working for the salvation of souls. He instituted an association of lay people under the patronage of Our Lady of Mount Carmel to promote piety and devotion. Unceasing in his devotion to the Blessed Eucharist, he passed days and nights pouring out his prayers, and God often gave him power to work spectacular miracles and instantaneous cures of the sick. He fulfilled many offices in his own community in a most admirable manner. He fell asleep in the Lord on the fifth day of December, 1495. The devotion paid to him from that time was approved by Pope Pius X.

Taken from the 1966 Discalced Carmelite Proper.