Saint Casto of Calvi

Biography

Saint Casto of Calvi, also known as Castus, was a renowned priest, missionary bishop, miracle worker, and healer in the early years of Christianity. Although details of his early life are scarce, he is believed to have been born in the 3rd century. One of the most remarkable accounts of Saint Casto's life occurred when he was lured alongside another saint, Cassius of Sinuessa, to a location near Aquaviva in central Italy. The pagan priests issued a challenge, aiming to prove that the power of Christianity was inferior to that of idols. However, when Casto and Cassius were seized, beaten, and thrown into a fire, they emerged unharmed by the flames. Astonished by this display, the pagans accused the two saints of practicing magic, forcibly removing them from the fire. The pagan priests then dragged Casto and Cassius to a nearby pagan temple, where they demanded that the bishops offer incense to an idol. As all the priests gathered inside the temple, it suddenly collapsed, resulting in the death of the pagans while Casto and Cassius remained untouched, miraculous yet again. Undeterred, their adversaries took the two bishops to Sinuessa, where they were subjected to further persecution. There, they were stoned and ultimately martyred for their unwavering faith in Christ. Saint Casto's death is recorded as being the result of him being stabbed with a sword at Sinuessa, in the region of Latium, which is now part of modern Italy. The exact details of his martyrdom remain obscured, but his sacrifice perpetuated his steadfast commitment to Christianity until the very end. Following his death, Saint Casto's relics were interred in the cathedral of Calvi, Italy, where they continue to be venerated. While there is little information available regarding his specific patronage, he is recognized and honored as a Pre-Congregation saint. Saint Casto's feast day is celebrated on May 12th each year, commemorating his life, martyrdom, and the miracles attributed to his intercession. Though there are no known visual representations of him, his spiritual presence endures as an inspiration. As a priest, missionary bishop, miracle worker, and healer, Saint Casto of Calvi stands as an exemplar of unwavering faith and devotion to the Christian faith.