Background
Jacoba dei Settesoli was born in Rome and married into the noble Frangipani family.
Jacoba dei Settesoli was born in Rome and married into the noble Frangipani family.
She is also called Jacqueline de Settesoli, or Brother Jacoba, as Francis had named her. She was a young widow when she heard of the holy man, Francis of Assisi. Desiring to meet the penitent in order to seek his spiritual advice, she got her wish when Francis and his small band came to Rome to obtain papal approval of the Franciscan Rule of life.
Having heard Francis preach, she sought his guidance on how to be charitable.
She spent the rest of her life in the practice of good works. When he travelled to Rome, Francis would stay as her guest.
At his request, she was present with him at his death. As Francis lay dying, he wanted to taste once more his favorite almond treat and asked “Brother” Jacoba to bring him some.
Even before word had reached her, she had already prepared the almond pastries for Francis.
Francis died on the evening of Saturday, 3 October 1226. The date of her death in Assisi took place February 8, 1239, and was buried near the tomb of Saint Francis. Her remains are in the crypt of the Basilica of San Francesco d"Assisi, near those of Francis.
Her feast day is 8 February.
There is a tradition among Franciscan communities to commemorate the Transitus (ie "passing" or death) of Saint Francis. In some, there has developed the custom of distributing small almond confections (cookies, scones, etc), recalling Bl.
Jacoba"s attendance at his death.