The Early Life and Dramatic Conversion of St Peregrine
Peregrine Laziosi grew up during a turbulent period in Italian history when political factions divided cities and families. His hometown of Forlì aligned with the anti-papal Ghibelline party, and young Peregrine embraced these political tensions with fervor. As a member of this faction, he participated in protests and demonstrations against papal authority, viewing Church representatives as political enemies rather than spiritual leaders.
The turning point came in 1283 when Pope Martin IV sent St Philip Benizi to Forlì as a peacemaker. The Servite priest arrived hoping to reconcile the warring factions and restore harmony to the divided city. However, his mission faced immediate hostility from the Ghibelline supporters. During one particularly heated confrontation, the young Peregrine struck Philip Benizi across the face, displaying contempt for both the messenger and his message.
