51ºÚÁÏ

Vincent gained acclaim as a preacher, missionary and logician.

He was named Vincent after Vincent Martyr, the patron saint of Valencia.
He began classical studies aged 8. He studied theology and philosophy at 14.
Aged 18 he entered the Order of Preachers - the Dominican Order.

During his first year he was tempted to leave but through prayer and penance he overcame his trials. He successfully completed his probation year and advanced in his profession.

For 3 years he solely read Sacred Scripture and eventually committed it to memory.
In 1379 he was ordained a Catholic priest in Barcelona. He became a Master of Theology and was commissioned to deliver lectures on philosophy. Sent to Barcelona. Went to the University of Lleida and earned his doctorate in Theology.

The Western Schism (1378-1417)divided the Catholic Church. With first two, then three claimants for the papacy.
Vincent , with his brother - Boniface, General of the Carthusians, were involved and supported Cardinal de Luna. Cardinal de Luna was elected and took the name Benedict XIII.

For 21 years he travelled through many European countries preaching the Gospel and converting many. Many biographers believe he could only speak Valencian but was endowed with the gift of tongues . His style has been described as ’ innovative’ His voice was strong and powerful, at times gentile, resonant and vibrant.

He is said to be responsible for many Jews being converted to Catholicism.
( ReadConversion of Jews and controversy)

Compromise of Caspe. He became involved, as a respected figure, to choose Aragon’s next king because there were 5 potential candidate… He voted for the Castilian prince Ferdinand of Castile who became the next king. On 28th June Vincent publicly proclaimed him as king.

Vincent died on 5th April 1419 at Vannes in Brittany aged 69.

Pope Callixtus III had him canonized on 3rd June 1455.

Vincent’s Feast Day is 5th April.

Sources
Wikipedia
Oxford Dictionary of Saints by David Farmer