Saint Callistus Caravario

Biography

Saint Callistus Caravario, also known as Callisto or Calixto, was born on June 18, 1903, in Cuorgné, Italy. From a young age, he exhibited great piety and a deep devotion to prayer. Recognizing his religious inclination, he entered the Salesian congregation and was ordained as a missionary priest. After his ordination, Saint Callistus was sent to serve in various locations around the world. He began his missionary work in Macao, China, and later moved to Timor. However, it was in Shiuchow, China, where his faith and dedication would ultimately be tested. On May 18, 1929, Saint Callistus arrived in Shiuchow, joining his bishop, Saint Luigi Versiglia, on a mission to spread the teachings of Christ in this challenging region. Little did they know that their journey would take a perilous turn. On February 25, 1930, while travelling with his bishop, their ship was suddenly boarded by Bolshevik pirates, who had sinister intentions of abducting and enslaving young girls present on the vessel. Saint Callistus and Saint Luigi, knowing the gravity of the situation, bravely stood up to the pirates, attempting to prevent this heinous act. Their selfless and courageous actions, however, resulted in both saints being shot and martyred off the coast of Shiuchow. Undeterred by the threats they faced, they remained steadfast in protecting the innocent, laying down their lives for the greater cause. Saint Callistus Caravario, along with Saint Luigi Versiglia, is remembered as one of the Martyrs of China. Their unwavering faith, sacrificial heroism, and love for humanity serve as a testament to their devotion to God and the call to defend the dignity and rights of those in need. Recognizing their supreme sacrifice, Pope Paul VI declared the martyrdom of Saint Callistus and Saint Luigi on November 13, 1976. Their beatification was later celebrated on May 15, 1983, by Pope John Paul II, who recognized their exemplary lives of faith. Finally, on October 1, 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized both saints, acknowledging their sanctity and their model of holiness for all believers. While no specific patronage is attributed to Saint Callistus Caravario, his life serves as an inspiration for all those who are called to stand up for justice, truth, and the defense of the vulnerable. His unwavering commitment to his faith and the ultimate sacrifice he made in defending others are a testament to his remarkable character. Saint Callistus Caravario continues to shine as a beacon of light and an example of Christian virtue for all believers to follow.