Blessed Antonio Migliorati

Biography

Blessed Antonio Migliorati, also known as Antony of Amandola, was born on January 17, 1355, in Amandola, Ascoli Piceno, Italy. He came from a humble background, born into the family of Simpliciano Migliorati, a farmer. Despite their limited wealth, the Migliorati family possessed great faith, which greatly influenced Antonio's own religious journey.

Inspired by the life and work of Saint Nicholas of Tolentino, Antonio joined the Augustinians. He became a priest and served as the sacristan of the Augustinian church in Tolentino for approximately twelve years, dating back to around 1385. This church held the tomb of Saint Nicholas, and Antonio lived in a nearby monastery during this time.

Antonio's devotion and zeal for the faith led him to become a traveling preacher, journeying throughout southern Italy from around 1397. Known for his love for the poor and his miracles, he tirelessly spread the message of God's love and mercy.

In 1400, Antonio returned to his hometown of Amandola, where he dedicated himself to building an Augustinian monastery and church. Originally named after Saint Augustine of Hippo, this religious establishment was later renamed in honor of Blessed Antonio himself, who led the community for many of his remaining 50 years there.

Antonio was not only dedicated to the spiritual growth of his fellow Augustinians but also to the wider community. He was actively involved in serving the people of Amandola, providing them with guidance, support, and spiritual nourishment.

On January 25, 1450, Blessed Antonio Migliorati passed away peacefully in the Saint Augustine monastery of Amandola, from natural causes. He was buried in the monastery graveyard alongside his brother Augustinians.

In 1453, his remains were enshrined in a wooden ark within the monastery church. However, during the turbulent times of the French Revolution in 1798, when anti-Christian forces ravaged the region, the shrine was damaged, and Antonio's body was desecrated.

Despite this unfortunate event, the people's devotion to Blessed Antonio remained steadfast. In 1641, his remains were re-enshrined in a wooden sarcophagus, providing a place of veneration. Then, in 1897, his body was transferred to a marble sarcophagus, adorned with a gold crown placed upon his head in 1899.

Throughout the years, Blessed Antonio Migliorati has been revered for his holiness and his reputation as a miracle worker. He was beatified by Pope Clement XIII on July 11, 1759, confirming his cultus or devotion. Pope Leo XIII also granted a plenary indulgence to visitors of the shrine on April 20, 1890.

Today, the incorrupt body of Blessed Antonio Migliorati is still preserved and displayed in the church of the Augustinian monastery in Amandola. Despite the passing centuries, countless individuals continue to seek his intercession, presenting their prayers and intentions before this remarkable witness of faith.