Who would have thought that a soon-to-be Cardinal, someone we expect to find robed in majestic silk gowns, surrounded by books, or kneeling in a sanctuary, would instead be caught with his sleeves rolled up, scrubbing greasy pots at a kitchen sink?

But that is exactly how the papal legates (personal representative of the Pope who has been entrusted with authority from the Holy See) found Saint Bonaventure.

In 1273, Pope Gregory X elevated this brilliant Franciscan friar, much against his will, to the rank of Cardinal-Bishop of Albano. In those days, long before popes could announce via live broadcasts or bulletin, or send an email, communication required physical journeys. The Pope sent a formal delegation of high-ranking Vatican officials to hand-deliver the galero (the large, prestigious red hat that symbolizes the authority and dignity of a Prince of the Church).

It is said that the pope’s envoys who brought St. Bonaventure the cardinal’s hat found the saint washing dishes outside a convent near Florence, who then requested them to hang it on a tree nearby until his hands were free to take it.

The legates stood there in utter shock, holding the magnificent red hat.

He did not drop his sponge. He did not rush to kiss their rings. He simply finished the ordinary task God had given him for that moment: cleaning up after his brother.

He understood that true holiness does not emanate from titles we hold, the robes we wear, or the applause we receive. It emanates from the love and humility we pour into the hidden moments of everyday life.

Pride convinces us that our time and status make us too important for small things. But Saint Bonaventure shatters that delusion from the dishwashing basin. His example reminds us that holiness is found in the hidden corners of daily service, and the only way up is down on our knees.

Saint Bonaventure, intercede for us!