Saint Ansovinus of Camerino

Biography

Saint Ansovinus of Camerino, also known as Ansovino, Ansuinus, Answin, or Oswin, was a Priest and hermit who lived near Torcello, Italy. He later became the Bishop of Camerino, Italy, after being consecrated by Pope Leo IV. However, he accepted this vocation under the condition that his parishioners would not be required to recruit soldiers, a duty imposed on most bishops during that era. Saint Ansovinus is known for his close association with Emperor Louis the Pious, serving as his confessor. He attended the Council of Rome called by Pope Saint Nicholas I in 861, where he actively participated in important discussions and debates concerning the Church. His reputation as a miracle worker developed due to his work of feeding the poor. On one occasion, when the granary was empty but there were still impoverished individuals in need of sustenance, Saint Ansovinus prayed for help. To his astonishment, the granary was found to be fully stocked, and everyone was able to eat to their heart's content. Although there is no specific representation of Saint Ansovinus in artistic depictions, his image is often portrayed in the traditional bishop attire and holding a crozier, symbolizing his office as Bishop of Camerino. Saint Ansovinus was born and lived his entire life in Camerino, Italy. He passed away in 868 after contracting a fever in Rome. His relics are enshrined in a 14th-century sarcophagus located in the crypt of the cathedral in Camerino, Italy. Recognized as a saint before the formal canonization process existed, Saint Ansovinus is venerated as a holy figure in the Catholic Church. He is regarded as the patron saint of gardeners and the protector of crops, particularly in the Camerino-San Severino Marche, Italy, diocese. His feast day is celebrated on March 13th each year.