CLAUSI, BERNARDO, venerable. - A most devout priest of the Minims, b. at S. Sisto (Cosenza) in 1789, d. at Paola on 20 Dec. 1849. He entered the Order of Minims at Paola while still very young, but, when this Order was suppressed in 1809, he had to leave the cloister and perform military service. When the convents were restored, he returned to the Minims, professing their rule in 1828; his exemplary life won him a reputation for holiness. For many years he was superior in various convents, and for a longer period in Rome.
He possessed the gift of prophecy and miracles. He gave spiritual direction to several servants of God, among them the Ven. Pallotti and distinguished personages. He was esteemed by Popes Gregorio XVI and Pio IX. In his final years he suffered severe spiritual dryness and vexations from the devil. His cause of beatification was introduced by decree of 20 Dec. 1883.