St. Alessio Falconieri, the Sts. Seven Fonders of the Order of the Servants of Mary

St. Alessio Falconieri (c. 1200 - c. 1310) was one of the Seven Holy Founders of the Order of the Servants of Mary (Servites). Born in Florence, Italy, he and six companions founded the order in 1233 to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary. Alessio lived a life of prayer, asceticism, and service to the poor. He is venerated for his deep devotion to the Blessed Mother and for his role in establishing the Servite Order. Alessio's feast day is celebrated on February 17th, the date of his death. He is the patron saint of the Servite Order and is invoked for protection from temptation.