Bl. Antonio Lucci
Today we celebrate the feast day of Bl. Antonio Lucci. Bl. Antonio was born in Agnone which is located in the southern part of Italy, and he was given the name Angelo when he was baptized. Bl. Antonio attended the local school which was run by the Conventual Franciscans and he was able to join them at the age of 16. Bl. Antonio had completed his studies for the priesthood in Assisi, where he was later ordained in during the year 1705. Further studies led to a doctorate in theology and appointments as a teacher in Agnone, Ravello, and Naples. He also served as guardian in Naples.
Bl. Antonio was elected the minister provincial during the year 1718, the following year he was able to be appointed a professor at St. Bonaventure College in Rome. He was able to hold this position until Pope Benedict XIII chose Bl. Antonio to be bishop of Bovino during the year 1729. The pope explained, “I have chosen as bishop of Bovino an eminent theologian and a great saint.”
During Bl. Antonio’s 23 years as bishop , they were marked by visits to local parishes and a renewal of gospel living among the many people who were in his diocese. He dedicated his episcopal income to works of education and charity.
Bl. Antonio Lucci was beatified during the year 1989, three years after his friend Francesco Antonio Fasani was canonized. Bl. Antonio’s feast day is celebrated on July 25.
Prayer to Bl. Antonio
Bl. Antonio intercede that we may be able to do the Lord’s will. Help us to guide more people to Him and help us to inspire others to guide others to Him.
Amen
Bl. Antonio pray for us
St. Joseph pray for us
May we continue to strengthen our journey to sainthood and keep others in our prayers.
Works cited
Information (read from, not taken):
Franciscan media. “Blessed Antonio Lucci. ”Blessed Antonio Lucci | Franciscan Media. Accessed July 27, 2021.
Images:
Blessed Antonio Lucci. July 27, 2021. Bl. Antonio Lucci - Google Search.