Blessed Antoine Neyrot

Biography

Blessed Antoine Neyrot, also known as Antoine Neirotti, Antonio, or Anthony, was born around 1425 in Rivoli, in the diocese of Turin, Italy. As a young man, he joined the Dominican Order at the Convent of San Marco in Florence.

During his time as a Dominican, Antoine Neyrot embarked on a journey to Naples, Italy, in order to preach. However, his travels took an unexpected turn when he was captured by Moorish pirates and taken to Tunis, Tunisia. Initially, Neyrot was treated relatively well by his captors. However, they began to perceive him as arrogant due to his unwavering faith in Christianity, which led to his imprisonment and the provision of only bread and water.

In captivity, Antoine Neyrot faced a tremendous internal struggle. Seeking a means of escape and survival, he made the difficult decision to renounce his Christian faith. He began studying Islam, worked on a translation of the Quran, and ultimately entered into marriage. Despite these outward displays, Neyrot apparently never fully abandoned his Christian beliefs. Overwhelmed with remorse and longing for the faith he had once embraced, he experienced a profound change of heart after a few months.

Resolute in his decision to return to the Catholic Church, Antoine Neyrot resumed wearing his Dominican habit and, with great determination, sought out a priest. Once he had the opportunity, he publicly proclaimed himself a Christian, rejecting his former renunciations. This act of courage and recommitment to his faith ultimately led to his martyrdom.

On April 10th, 1460, Antoine Neyrot was stoned to death in Tunis, Tunisia, for his unwavering loyalty to Christ. His body was later returned to Rivoli, Italy, by merchants passing through the region. The devout faith and martyrdom of Blessed Antoine Neyrot have made him an inspirational figure, revered within the Catholic Church.

Recognizing his virtue and sacrifice, Pope Clement XIII beatified Antoine Neyrot on February 22nd, 1767. His feast day is celebrated on April 10th, a date that commemorates the anniversary of his martyrdom. Though there is no specific representation attributed to him, the life of Blessed Antoine Neyrot serves as an enduring example of fidelity to one's faith, even in the face of immense adversity.