Saint Luke Casali

Biography

Saint Luke Casali, also known as Luke Casalius, Luca Casali, and Luca of Nicosia, was a renowned Catholic saint born in Nicosia, Sicily, Italy. Little is known about his early life, except that he received a notable education under the abbot of the monastery of Saint Philip at Agira, Sicily. Luke Casali's devoutness and dedication to his faith led him to become a monk at the same monastery he was educated in. However, despite his commitment to the monastic life, he was somewhat reluctant to assume the role of abbot of his house. Nevertheless, due to circumstances that are not entirely clear, he assumed the position. One of the most remarkable aspects of Saint Luke Casali's life was an unfortunate event that resulted in his blindness. The reasons behind his blindness remain unknown, but it did not deter his strong faith or prevent him from continuing to serve God. A memorable incident occurred during a journey to Nicosia, where one of his fellow monks attempted to play a practical joke on the blind abbot. The monk falsely informed Luke Casali that a group of townspeople was following them, eager to hear him preach. With unwavering trust in his fellow monk, Luke stopped, turned towards the direction he was told the people were standing, and began to preach to what he believed was an attentive crowd. To the astonishment of the prankster, as the abbot concluded his sermon, the stones along the road seemingly came alive, shouting "Amen" in chorus. This miraculous event confounded the practical joker and left a lasting impression on all witnesses. In commemoration of this extraordinary occurrence, a church dedicated to Saint Luke Casali was later built on the very spot where he preached to the stones. Saint Luke Casali's representation is not known, but his life and works earned him a place of great reverence in the Catholic Church. He died around 800 AD at the monastery of Saint Philip in Agira, Sicily, Italy, from natural causes. Most of his relics remain in Agira, where they are venerated by the faithful, while some are also present in Nicosia, Sicily. Although Saint Luke Casali was canonized before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, he is recognized as a saint in the Catholic Church. His devoted intercession is particularly sought after by the people of Nicosia, Sicily, Italy. In 1575, the city was plagued by a deadly outbreak, and it is believed that Saint Luke Casali's intervention brought an end to this calamity. Saint Luke Casali's life serves as an inspiration for the faithful, demonstrating unwavering faith in the face of adversity and the enduring power of God's grace. His dedication to his call as a monk and abbot, as well as the remarkable incident with the stones, have secured his place as a beloved and respected saint in the Catholic tradition.