Saint Bonaventure was an Italian theologian, philosopher, and minister general of the Franciscan Order. Renowned for his works on spiritual life, he is also credited with recodifying his order’s constitution. According to tradition, as a child, he experienced a near-death illness and was miraculously healed through the prayers of Saint Francis of Assisi. Bonaventure entered the Franciscan Order at the age of 22. After taking his vows, he was sent to Paris, where he studied under the celebrated theologian Alexander of Hales. Following Alexander’s death, Bonaventure continued his education under John of Rochelle, Alexander’s successor. During this time, he became a close friend of the renowned philosopher Thomas Aquinas. Both Bonaventure and Aquinas later earned their Doctorate in Theology in Paris and maintained a friendship with the holy King, Saint Louis IX of France. As minister general of the Franciscan Order, Bonaventure was instrumental in restoring peace during a period of internal conflict within the order. He served with great distinction and devotion, but shortly before his death in 1274, he resigned from his position as minister general. Bonaventure passed away in 1274 while attending the Second Council of Lyons, a significant event in the history of the Catholic Church. He was canonized in 1482 and later declared a Doctor of the Church in 1588, earning the title "Seraphic Doctor" for his profound theological contributions.