Bassianus of Lodi
Bassianus of Lodi was an Italian saint and bishop, venerated as the patron saint of Lodi, Bassano del Grappa, and Pizzighettone. He is remembered for his pastoral care, his gift of healing, and his participation in significant church councils of the late 4th century.
- Feast Day
- January 19
- Century
- 5th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Bassianus was born in Syracuse, Sicily, to Sergius, the city's prefect.
- ›He was converted to Christianity in Rome by a priest named Giordano, against his parents' wishes.
- ›Bassianus became bishop of Lodi around 373, consecrated by Ambrose of Milan and Urso of Ravenna.
- ›He built a church dedicated to the Apostles, consecrating it in 381.
- ›Bassianus participated in the Council of Aquileia in 381 and may have attended the Council of Milan (390).
- ›His signature appears with Ambrose's on a letter to Pope Siricius, and he was present at Ambrose's death in 397.
Bassiano di Lodi, Bassianus Laudensis
Lodi, Bassano Del Grappa, Pizzighettone, Leprosy
About Bassianus of Lodi
Bassianus of Lodi (c. 320 – 413) was an Italian saint, venerated as the patron saint of Lodi, Bassano del Grappa, and Pizzighettone in Italy. His life story, while rooted in historical context, also incorporates elements characteristic of hagiography.
Life and Ministry
Born in Syracuse, Sicily, to Sergius, the city's prefect, Bassianus was sent to Rome for his studies. There, he experienced a significant conversion to Christianity through a priest named Giordano, a decision that met with his parents' disapproval. Fearing his father's attempts to make him apostatize, Bassianus fled to Ravenna and sought refuge with Urso, the Bishop of Ravenna. He then embraced a life as a hermit near Sant'Apollinare in Classe.
Around 373, upon the death of the bishop of Lodi, Bassianus was called to succeed him. He was consecrated as bishop by Ambrose of Milan and Urso of Ravenna. During his episcopacy, Bassianus was instrumental in building a church dedicated to the Apostles, which he consecrated in 381 in the presence of Ambrose and Saint Felix of Como. His participation in significant ecclesiastical events is noted, including the Council of Aquileia in 381 and potentially the Council of Milan in 390, where Jovinian was condemned. Bassianus's signature appears alongside Ambrose's on a letter addressed to Pope Siricius. A poignant moment in his life was his presence at the death of his friend Ambrose in 397.
Veneration and Legacy
Bassianus died around 413. He was known for his pastoral care and was believed to possess the gift of healing the sick. His veneration gained prominence, particularly after the destruction of Lodi by Milanese forces in 1158, during which his relics were taken to Milan. Following the intervention of Frederick Barbarossa and the decree for Lodi's rebuilding, his relics were returned in 1163. They were subsequently enshrined in the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Lodi, where they remain a focus of devotion in the crypt.
Bassianus is the patron saint of Lodi and is invoked for protection against leprosy. His feast day is celebrated on January 19, which is also marked by the St. Bassianus’ Fair in Lodi, a testament to his enduring significance in the region.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Bassianus of Lodi born?
Bassianus of Lodi was born in Syracuse, Sicily, around the year 320.
What was Bassianus of Lodi's role in the Church?
Bassianus became the bishop of Lodi around 373. He was consecrated by Ambrose of Milan and Urso of Ravenna. He also lived as a hermit near Sant'Apollinare in Classe.
What significant church events did Bassianus of Lodi participate in?
Bassianus participated in the Council of Aquileia in 381 and may have attended the Council of Milan in 390, where Jovinian was condemned. His signature is also found on a letter sent to Pope Siricius with Ambrose.
What is Bassianus of Lodi known for?
Bassianus of Lodi is known as a caring shepherd, believed to have the gift of healing the sick. He is the patron saint of Lodi, Bassano del Grappa, and Pizzighettone, and is invoked against leprosy.
Where are Bassianus of Lodi's relics kept?
After being moved to Milan in 1158, Bassianus' relics were returned to Lodi in 1163. They are now enshrined in the crypt of the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Lodi, where they continue to be revered.
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