The Patron Saint of Business Success

Long before business schools existed, a wealthy Italian merchant was canonized as a saint. Homobonus represents the rare belief that one can achieve commercial success while remaining deeply devout and generous.

Living in the twelfth century, Homobonus was a successful tailor and merchant from Cremona who gave much of his income to the poor. Unlike many saints known for retreating from society, he was honored for living a balanced life of honest labor and active charity. The Pope canonized him only two years after his death, recognizing him as a model for laypeople. Today, he remains the official patron saint for business people, tailors, and clothworkers worldwide.