Saint Vincent Strambi was born at Civitavecchia, in Italy, in 1745. A short time after his ordination to the priesthood he entered the recently founded Passionist Congregation.

Travelling throughout most of Italy, he endeavoured to promote the Christian life among the people by preaching on the Passion. He wrote hagiographical books, including a Life of St. Paul of the Cross, and devotional books, the most significant of which was that on the  Precious Blood. Being an outstanding 'spiritual director,' he directed, among others, Saint Gaspar del Bufalo and Blessed Anna Maria Taigi.

Appointed bishop of Macerata and Tolentino, he showed himself to be a true shepherd of his flock and promoted the reform of the clergy and the people with apostolic zeal. In the political upheavals of the time, he was a fearless advocate of the freedom of the Church and chose exile in preference to an unlawful oath of loyalty to Napoleon. When he returned to his see after exile, he once again manifested his deep pastoral concern and extraordinary charity for the poor.

Called by Pope Leo XII to become his personal advisor; he died in the Quirinal on January 1, 1824, after having offered himself to God in place of the Pope, who was seriously ill.