WELCOME! BLESSED RICHARD, BISHOP OF FOSSOMBRONE Richard, commemorated on August 7, Bishop of Fossombrone (Forum Sempronii) in Umbria, is listed by Artur * as a "blessed." According to Sintzel *, Blessed Richard descended from a aristocratic family, but was even more noble by his excellent virtues. In order to serve God alone, he avoided the company of men and loved solitude, devoting himself solely to prayer and spiritual learning. When he was elected Bishop of Fossombrone, he refused, saying in his humility: "A bishop, according to the saying of Saint Paul , should be blameless; How shall I, an unworthy man, dare to accept the episcopal dignity, when I am so reprehensible in my actions and omissions?" Since his refusal was not successful, he was consecrated. As bishop, Blessed Richard strove to be an example and model of all good works to the people entrusted to his charge; he redoubled his prayers, practiced fasting and vigils even more strictly, increased a...