Saint of the day

The little Curatino, who gave himself entirely for his parishioners

He never hesitated when faced with people in need, giving everything to everyone in charity, even going so far as to give away his own clothes to help the poor. He challenged the hostility of some anticlerical citizens, for which he was even beaten with clubs on one occasion, as he walked through Viareggio’s streets, distributing food. Known to everyone as the “Curatino”, he was seen as the manifestation of God’s presence among the people. He was the father of the poor and a supporter of sailors, who faced the storms to feed their families. Everyone knew they could count on the prayers of this little friar, who was small in height, but who had a big heart that was open to the needs of others.

Zealous Shepherd of his Flock

Paulinus of Aquileia was born in the territory of the Lombard Duchy of Friuli, at Premariacco, near Cividale. We possess no certain information about his childhood and youth, but it is plausible that he received a thorough education, both in secular disciplines and in theological studies, perhaps within the local episcopal environment, where his priestly vocation also matured.

One of the Great Cappadocian Fathers

Gregory of Nyssa, a leading figure of fourth-century Christianity, was born in Cappadocia between 335 and 340 into an extraordinarily rich family of religious personalities. The younger brother of Basil of Caesarea, he was above all deeply influenced in his spiritual formation by his elder sister Macrina.

A peacemaker in the midst of conflicts

As a mediator and peacemaker in disputes between warring towns, Saint Andrew Corsini, a Carmelite religious and Bishop of Fiesole, was imprisoned for his zeal.

Saint Andrew was born into an aristocratic Florentine family in Florence on 30 November 1301, and had a carefree adolescence. He entered the Carmine convent when he was 15 years old, distinguishing himself for his charity towards the poor and those in need. After he was ordained a priest, he was sent to the University of Paris to complete his studies.

The Apostle of Noricum

Saint Severinus of Noricum, born around 410, is a central figure Christianity of  Late Antiquity. Recognized as a saint by both the Roman Catholic and the Orthodox Churches, he devoted his life to the evangelization of the Roman province of Noricum, in present-day Austria, where he founded numerous monastic communities. The area he frequented most was the Danubian plain, between Carnuntum and the region of Passavia, today’s Passau.