Catellus of Castellammare
Saint Catellus of Castellamare was a 9th-century bishop of Castellammare di Stabia, known for his close friendship with Saint Antoninus of Sorrento. Tradition recounts his desire to become a hermit, leading him to entrust his bishopric to Antoninus before withdrawing to Monte Aureo. He is chiefly remembered for his role as bishop and his interactions with Antoninus, including the construction of the oratory known as Monte San Angelo or Punta San Michele.
- Century
- 9th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Catellus was a bishop of Castellammare DI Stabia in the 9th century.
- ›He was a close friend of Saint Antoninus of Sorrento.
- ›Tradition states Catellus gave up his office as bishop to become a hermit.
- ›He withdrew to Monte Aureo and dedicated himself sporadically to his diocese.
- ›Catellus was accused of witchcraft by a priest named Tibeius and was held captive in Rome.
- ›His cult was confirmed by the Sacred Congregation on September 13, 1729.
San Catello
About Catellus of Castellammare
Saint Catellus of Castellamare
Saint Catellus of Castellamare, also known by his Italian name San Catello, was a bishop of Castellamare di Stabia during the 9th century. He is primarily known through hagiographical accounts, notably as a close companion and friend to Saint Antoninus of Sorrento.
Life and Ministry
Tradition recounts that Antoninus, fleeing Lombard invasions, found refuge in Campania, arriving at Castellamare di Stabia. At this time, Catellus served as the bishop. However, Catellus harbored a strong desire to become a hermit and consequently relinquished his episcopal office, entrusting the pastoral care of the diocese to Antoninus. Catellus then withdrew to Monte Aureo to pursue a solitary life.
Antoninus, also seeking a hermit's life, eventually persuaded Catellus to return to his episcopal duties. Antoninus himself then retired to Monte Aureo, residing in a natural grotto. Catellus, however, periodically returned to the mountain, dedicating himself only sporadically to the administration of his diocese.
An event of spiritual significance occurred when an apparition of Saint Michael is said to have inspired both Catellus and Antoninus to construct the stone oratory now known as Monte San Angelo or Punta San Michele.
Later in his life, Catellus faced accusations of witchcraft, brought forth by a priest named Tibeius (Tibeio) of Stabia. This led to his imprisonment in Rome until his release by a new pope. Upon his return to Stabia, Catellus recommitted himself to expanding the church he had helped to found.
Veneration
Details concerning the life of Saint Catellus are primarily derived from an account penned towards the end of the 9th century by an anonymous chronicler. His life is also referenced in historical sources that document the life of his friend, Saint Antoninus. The Theatine father Antonio Caracciolo edited one of these accounts in 1626. The veneration of Saint Catellus was officially confirmed by the Sacred Congregation on September 13, 1729. A Chapel dedicated to San Catello is located within the Castellammare Cathedral.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Catellus of Castellamare?
Saint Catellus of Castellamare, also known as San Catello, was a bishop of Castellammare di Stabia in the 9th century. He is remembered for his close friendship with Saint Antoninus of Sorrento and his desire to live as a hermit.
What is Saint Catellus of Castellamare known for?
Catellus is known for tradition stating he gave up his bishopric to become a hermit, entrusting his see to Antoninus of Sorrento. He also, with Antoninus, was involved in constructing an oratory after an apparition of Saint Michael.
What challenges did Catellus face?
Catellus was accused of witchcraft by a priest named Tibeius of Stabia. He was subsequently held captive in Rome until a new pope released him.
When was the cult of Catellus confirmed?
The cult of Saint Catellus was confirmed by the Sacred Congregation on September 13, 1729. This official recognition solidified his veneration.
Where is Saint Catellus venerated?
Saint Catellus is venerated in Italy, particularly in Castellammare di Stabia, where a chapel dedicated to him is located in the Castellammare Cathedral.
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