Saint Anastasius of Suppentonia

Biography

Saint Anastasius of Suppentonia, also known as Anastasius of Castel Sant'Elia or Anastasius X, was a Benedictine monk and abbot at Suppentonia in the diocese of Nepi, Italy. He lived during the 6th century and is believed to have died in 570 at Suppentonia from natural causes. Very little is known about the life of Saint Anastasius, but his importance lies in the spiritual impact he had on his community. According to Pope Saint Gregory the Great's writings, an extraordinary event occurred in relation to Anastasius and his fellow monks. It is said that an angel appeared to summon them, foretelling their imminent deaths. Strikingly, all of the monks passed away within a period of eight days. Suppentonia, or modern-day Castel Sant'Elia, owes its patronage to Saint Anastasius. He is venerated as the protector of this Italian town, and his feast day is celebrated on January 11th. Although there is no specific representation attributed to Saint Anastasius, his legacy lives on through the devotion of the people of Castel Sant'Elia. The details surrounding his life and his role within the Benedictine community remain mostly obscure, yet his spiritual presence continues to inspire those who invoke his intercession. Saint Anastasius of Suppentonia was canonized before the official establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, meaning his canonization predates the pre-congregation period. This recognition demonstrates the long-standing reverence and belief in his holiness that has persisted throughout the years. While concrete information about Saint Anastasius of Suppentonia may be scarce, his significance lies in the spiritual impact he made on his community. Through his dedication as a monk, his role as an abbot, and the mysterious circumstances of his death alongside his fellow monks, Anastasius exemplified a life devoted to God and serves as an inspiration for the people of Castel Sant'Elia and all who seek his intercession.