Andrew Avellino
Andrew Avellino was an Italian Theatine priest celebrated for his prolific preaching, tireless work hearing confessions, and dedicated visits to the sick. He is venerated as the patron saint of Naples and Sicily and is invoked for protection against sudden death.
- Feast Day
- November 10
- Century
- 17th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Andrew Avellino was born Lancelotto in Castronuovo, Basilicata, and later changed his name upon entering the Order of Theatines.
- ›He studied law in Naples, earned a Doctor of Laws degree, and was ordained a priest at age twenty-six.
- ›Avellino played a significant role in reforming a scandal-ridden convent in Naples, facing severe opposition and personal injury.
- ›He later joined the newly founded Order of Theatines, becoming its superior and establishing new houses in Milan and Piacenza.
- ›His efforts led to the conversion of many sinners and heretics through his preaching and spiritual guidance.
- ›He died on November 10, 1608, at the age of 88, after being stricken with apoplexy while celebrating Mass.
Andrea Avellino
Naples, Sicily, Sudden Death, Stroke Victims
About Andrew Avellino
Andrew Avellino (born Andrea Avellino, 1521 – 10 November 1608) was an Italian Theatine priest, deeply influential in religious reform and spiritual guidance. His life's work centered on preaching, hearing confessions, visiting the sick, and writing ascetical works. He is venerated as the patron saint of Naples and Sicily, and is particularly invoked against sudden death and for the protection of stroke victims.
Life and Ministry
Born Lancelotto in Castronuovo, Basilicata, he later changed his name to Andrew upon entering the newly founded Order of Theatines. After pursuing studies in humanities and philosophy in Venice, he moved to Naples to study law, obtaining a Doctor of Laws degree and being ordained a priest at twenty-six. For a time, he served as a lawyer at the ecclesiastical court of Naples.
His commitment to religious discipline was tested when he was tasked with reforming a scandal-ridden convent in Naples. Through his unwavering example and zealous efforts, he succeeded in restoring order, though not without facing considerable opposition and even a severe assault from those who opposed his reforms. This experience solidified his resolve, leading him to enter the Order of Theatines in 1556 at the age of thirty-five. After completing his novitiate, he served as master of novices for ten years and was later elected superior.
Avellino's dedication to strict religious discipline and the purity of the clergy led him to found two new Theatine houses, one in Milan and another in Piacenza, and he was instrumental in establishing many more throughout Italy. His prudence in directing souls and his eloquent preaching were highly effective in converting sinners and heretics, attracting numerous disciples, including Lorenzo Scupoli, author of The Spiritual Combat. Charles Borromeo, a close friend, frequently sought his counsel. Avellino also collaborated with Paolo Burali d'Arezzo in implementing the reforms of the Council of Trent in the Diocese of Piacenza.
Writings and Death
Despite his demanding pastoral duties, Andrew Avellino found time to write several ascetical works. His letters were published in Naples in 1731 in two volumes, followed by his other ascetical works in five volumes three years later. He died on November 10, 1608, at the age of 88, collapsing from apoplexy while celebrating Mass. He received the Holy Viaticum before his death.
Canonization and Veneration
Andrew Avellino was beatified by Pope Urban VIII in 1624, just sixteen years after his death. He was canonized by Pope Clement XI in 1712. His remains are interred in the Church of San Paolo Maggiore in Naples. His feast day is observed on November 10.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Andrew Avellino?
Andrew Avellino was an Italian Theatine priest, born in 1521, who lived a life dedicated to preaching, hearing confessions, and ministering to the sick. He is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church.
What is Andrew Avellino the patron saint of?
He is venerated as the patron saint of Naples and Sicily. He is invoked especially for protection against sudden death and for the protection of stroke victims.
When did Andrew Avellino live and die?
Andrew Avellino was born in 1521 and died on November 10, 1608, at the age of 88. He was canonized in 1712.
What were Andrew Avellino's main activities during his life?
Avellino was actively involved in preaching, hearing confessions, and visiting the sick. He also played a key role in reforming religious houses and founding new ones for the Theatine order.
Did Andrew Avellino write any books?
Yes, Andrew Avellino was the author of several ascetical works. His letters were published in two volumes in 1731, and his other ascetical works were published in five volumes three years later.
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