Saint Cesidio Giacomantonio

Biography

Saint Cesidio Giacomantonio, also known as Angelo, was born on 30 August 1873 in Fossa, L’Aquila, Italy, to Giovanni and Maria Loreta Antonucci. From a young age, Cesidio felt a deep calling to religious life and, at the age of 15, he joined the Franciscan Friars Minor (Reformed) at the convent of San Angelo in Ocre, Italy. On 21 November 1891, at the age of 18, Cesidio made his initial vows and took the name Brother Cesidio in honor of Saint Caesidius. He then made his solemn profession on 8 December 1892. His dedication to his vocation led him to further studies, and in 1897, he was ordained as a priest in the Archdiocese of L'Aquila, Italy. Following his ordination, Cesidio was assigned to the convent in Capestrano, Italy. However, a year later, in 1898, he was sent to Rome to study at the International College of San Antonio in preparation for his work as a missionary. Recognizing the immense need for his presence and work in China, Cesidio, along with two other brothers, set sail for the country on 22 October 1899. Upon their arrival, Cesidio and his companions settled in the small community of Tong-siang. Cesidio dedicated himself to serving the local population and spreading the teachings of the Catholic faith. However, their missionary efforts were soon met with complications as the anti-Catholic persecutions of the Boxer Rebellion swept through the area. Despite the dangers, Cesidio remained steadfast in his mission to protect and preserve the Catholic faith. During the Boxer Rebellion, he courageously fought to defend the Blessed Sacrament when the Boxer forces seized the area. For his unwavering dedication, Cesidio was stoned, beaten, and ultimately martyred on 4 July 1900 in Hengzhou, Hunan, China. He was wrapped in a sheet soaked in oil and burned to death, sacrificing his life for his faith. The exemplary life and sacrifice of Cesidio Giacomantonio did not go unnoticed. On 3 January 1943, Pope Pius XII recognized his heroic virtues and declared him venerable. Then, on 24 November 1946, Pope Pius XII beatified Cesidio, acknowledging his status as a martyr. Finally, on 1 October 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized him as a saint, cementing his place among the beloved Catholic saints. Saint Cesidio Giacomantonio, also known as Angelo, is remembered for his selfless devotion to his vocation and his courage in the face of persecution. His life serves as an inspiration to all who strive to live out their faith with unwavering commitment and love for God.