(Benedict the Moor) (1526-1589) Confessor, born San Philadelphio, Sicily; died Palermo. His parents were Ethiopian slaves, converted to Christianity. Freed by his master at an early age, he joined a group of hermits on Monte Pellegrino, under the Franciscan rule, and served as superior for 22 years. After the dissolution of this society by Pope Pius IV, Benedict joined the reformed Recollects of the Franciscan Order, and was elected guardian of the house at Palermo, which he reformed and ruled until his death. Canonized, 1801. Feast, April 3,.