Brother Matteo of Santa Sabina: a song of faith and devotion.

Brother Matteo of Santa Sabina: a song of faith and devotion.

In the heart of 12th-century Rome, on the serene Aventine Hill, stood the Monastery of Santa Sabina, a beacon of faith and tranquility. Here lived Brother Matteo, a humble Dominican monk devoted to a life of prayer, service, and simplicity. Born in a small village near Perugia, Matteo was the son of a stonemason. His early years were shaped by hard work and a deep reverence for the natural world, instilled in him by his devout mother. At the age of 18, feeling a call to serve God, Matteo journeyed to Rome and joined the Dominican order, drawn by their motto: “Veritas”, Truth.

Now in his fifth decade, Brother Matteo was the steward of the monastery’s provisions, a role he embraced with unwavering faith. Each morning, as the first rays of sunlight illuminated the monastery’s ancient stone walls, he began his day with prayer in the chapel. His deep, sonorous voice joined his brethren in chanting psalms, his heart fixed on serving both God and his community.

Brother Matteo’s daily mission took him to the lush vegetable garden nestled behind the monastery. There, he tended rows of vibrant greens, aromatic herbs, and robust vines. With calloused hands, he harvested what the earth had generously provided, offering silent thanks for its bounty. On other days, his path led him down to the bustling market by the River Tevere. The market was a cacophony of life—merchants shouting their wares, the scents of fresh fish and spices mingling in the air. Matteo skillfully bartered for bread, grains, and fruits, his humble demeanor earning him the respect of the vendors.

For Brother Matteo, these tasks were not mere chores but acts of devotion. He saw God’s hand in the soil, the rain, and the faces of those he encountered. By ensuring his brethren were nourished, he believed he was feeding not just their bodies but their spirits, too. In his quiet, steadfast way, Brother Matteo exemplified the Dominican ideal: a life wholly dedicated to prayer, protection of the faith, and the love of community.

Discover more about the tale of Brother Matteo and Santa Sabina by booking our walking tour: “Monks and Knights on Aventino“.