Luca Antonio Falcone
Luca Antonio Falcone, known in religious life as Angelo, was an Italian Capuchin friar and priest renowned for his fervent preaching across southern Italy. He is remembered for his spiritual gifts, including ecstasies and visions, and for his significant role in spiritual conversions, earning him the titles "Angel of Peace" and "Apostle of the South."
- Feast Day
- October 30
- Century
- 18th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›He was born in Cosenza on October 19, 1669, to a poor but pious family.
- ›Falcone had a difficult path to religious life, entering and leaving the Capuchin order multiple times before finally professing his vows.
- ›He became a noted preacher, initially struggling but eventually attracting thousands to his sermons, particularly in cities like Catanzaro, Salerno, and Naples.
- ›He was known for experiencing ecstasies during Mass, possessing gifts of visions and bilocation, and for his ability to discern souls.
- ›Falcone was beatified by Pope Leo XII on December 18, 1825, and canonized by Pope Francis on October 15, 2017.
- ›He is a patron saint of Acri and of missionaries.
Angelo, Angel of Peace, Apostle of the South, Angelo d'Acri
Acri, Missionaries
Franciscan Order of Friars Minor Capuchin
About Luca Antonio Falcone
Luca Antonio Falcone (Angelo d'Acri)
Luca Antonio Falcone, known in religious life as Angelo, was an Italian Roman Catholic priest and a professed member of the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. Born in Cosenza on October 19, 1669, to humble and pious parents, Falcone experienced a challenging path to religious life, marked by several entries and exits from the Capuchin order before completing his novitiate in 1691.
Life and Ministry
After his ordination to the priesthood in 1700, Falcone initially struggled with preaching, with his early sermons attracting little following. However, under the encouragement of Cardinal Francesco Pignatelli, he persevered. His preaching eventually gained momentum, especially after a sermon in Naples where a prominent opponent of his message died shortly after, leading to increased attendance and a growing reputation. He became a noted preacher across southern Italian cities such as Catanzaro, Salerno, Taranto, and Montecassino, and was instrumental in converting the hearts of thousands.
Falcone was recognized for his spiritual gifts, including ecstasies during Mass, visions, and the ability of bilocation. These gifts and his fervent preaching earned him the titles "Angel of Peace" and "Apostle of the South." He also served the Capuchin order in administrative roles, including as provincial father and novice master.
Canonization
The process for Falcone's beatification began in 1744, and he was declared Venerable by Pope Pius VII on June 17, 1821. Pope Leo XII beatified him on December 18, 1825, following the recognition of three miracles attributed to his intercession. The formal process for sainthood opened in 1853, and after the investigation and validation of a fourth miracle, Pope Francis approved his canonization. Luca Antonio Falcone was proclaimed a saint on October 15, 2017, in Saint Peter's Square.
Legacy
Luca Antonio Falcone died on October 30, 1739, in Cosenza. His remains were later relocated to the Basilica del Beato Angelo d'Acri, a church constructed in his honor. He is venerated as a patron of Acri and of missionaries, and his life continues to be an inspiration for those dedicated to spiritual conversion and service.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Luca Antonio Falcone born and when did he die?
Luca Antonio Falcone was born on October 19, 1669, and died on October 30, 1739.
What religious order did Luca Antonio Falcone belong to?
Falcone belonged to the Franciscan Order of Friars Minor Capuchin.
What were Luca Antonio Falcone's most notable spiritual gifts?
He was known for experiencing ecstasies during Mass, and possessed the gifts of visions and bilocation.
What titles was Luca Antonio Falcone given?
He was titled as both the "Angel of Peace" and the "Apostle of the South" due to his preaching and spiritual influence.
When was Luca Antonio Falcone canonized?
Luca Antonio Falcone was canonized by Pope Francis on October 15, 2017.
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