Heritage Week: Lady Jacoba Cookies

Lady Jacoba de Settesoli was a Roman noblewoman who became very close friends with St. Francis. He would often visit her when he traveled to Rome, and when St. Francis’ health was declining, he requested her presence at his deathbed. Lady Jacoba was already on her way even before the messenger reached her, and she carried in tow some of St. Francis’ favorite treats: little almond cookies. Upon arriving in Assisi, St. Francis insisted that “Brother” Jacoba be immediately taken to him so that they could say their goodbyes to one another. Thus, these cookies are quite possibly the last thing that St. Francis ate and remain a symbol of the deep love and friendship between the two. As we remember the life and the death of St. Francis, we hope that these cookies can inspire you to think about and do a good deed for someone you love, especially if you haven’t recently expressed how thankful you are to have them in your life!

Please stop by the campus ministry office at any point from 10am to 3pm to grab yourself a Lady Jacoba almond cookie and remember the friendship between the St. Francis and Lady Jacoba that lasted quite literally until death.