Saint Louis Bertrand was born at Valencia in January 1^st of 1526; he joined the Dominican at the age of 18. After 3 years, St. Thomas of Villanova ordained him.

He was not distinguished for his preaching at first. However, through his hard work and the "grace intercession of St. Vincent Ferrier" soon he became one of the most outstanding preachers in Spain. His preaching was accompanied by miracles, and he is reported to have the gift of tongues. His life was noted for its austerity and penitence, and he seemed to have the power to touch even the most hardened sinners.

For 7 years, (1562 - 1569) he preached the good news for the Spanish America (active in Panama). With his zeal for preaching, he is said that at Santa Marta mountains where he had baptized 15, 000 people. By the savage, greedy exploitation of the Spanish colonists, he could not do anything much for these new Baptists. Then, he was recalled back to Spain where he had hold different positions as prior at San Onofre, novice master at Valencia with natural strictness and lack of humor but not without kindness, and vicar-general of the Dominicans.

In 1579, he was struck with a painful illness but continued his preaching. In 1580, while preaching in the cathedral of Valencia, he collapsed in the pulpit and had to bedridden until his death on October 9, 1581, at the age of 55.

After 90 years, he was canonized by Pope Clement X in 1671 and is the patron saint of Colombia and the patron of the Dominican formation personnel and novitiates. And his feast is celebrated in October 9^th in the Dominican liturgy.

Almighty and merciful God,

You filled the heart of St. Louis Bertrand,

The patron of novitiates and formation personnel

With a zeal of preaching through good deeds and words.

Enkindle in us the virtues of humility and patience

So we too may obediently do your will faithfully.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ,

The perfect example of obedience, your Son,

Who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,