Saint Possidius of Calama

Biography

Saint Possidius of Calama, also known as Possidonio, was a renowned spiritual student of one of the greatest theologians and philosophers in Christian history, Saint Augustine of Hippo. He was born around 370 in North Africa and dedicated his life to defending the true teachings of the Catholic Church. Possidius was appointed as the Bishop of Calama, Numidia, in North Africa in the year 397. During his time as Bishop, he faced the daunting task of combating various heresies that plagued his diocese, including Arianism, Donatism, and Pelagianism. Despite numerous threats and attempts on his life, Possidius fearlessly preached against these heresies and tirelessly upheld the orthodox teachings of the Church. However, his zeal for the truth came at a price. Possidius and his priests were often targeted by the followers of these heresies, resulting in attacks and damage to their churches. Despite these hardships, Possidius remained steadfast in his mission and continued to defend the faith with courage and conviction. Possidius's commitment to his faith was further exemplified by his efforts in preserving and promoting the legacy of Saint Augustine. He wrote a comprehensive biography of his great teacher, offering valuable insights into his life, teachings, and spiritual journey. Additionally, Possidius compiled a catalogue of Augustine's works, ensuring that future generations had access to the profound wisdom and theological contributions of the revered saint. Possidius's dedication to the Church extended beyond intellectual pursuits. He journeyed to Jerusalem and brought back relics of Saint Stephen the Martyr, which he reverently placed in Calama's diocese. Furthermore, Possidius established a community of Augustinian monks at the cathedral, contributing to the spiritual growth and development of the faithful. As time went on, Possidius's unwavering commitment to the faith caught the attention of the Arian Vandals, who saw him as a threat to their heretical beliefs. In the face of mounting persecution and danger, he was eventually forced into exile, facing a difficult and uncertain future. Possidius's final years were spent away from his beloved diocese. He lived out the remainder of his life in Mirandola, Italy, where he peacefully passed away around the year 440, succumbing to natural causes. His profound impact on the Church and his unwavering dedication to upholding the truth earned him a place among the canonized saints. Saint Possidius of Calama was officially declared a saint on August 19, 1672, by Pope Clement X. In honor of his significant contributions to the Church, he is recognized as the patron saint of Mirandola, Italy, as well as Rhegio, Italy. Throughout his life, Saint Possidius of Calama exemplified a deep and unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith. His defense against heresies, promotion of Saint Augustine's teachings, and establishment of monastic communities solidify his position as a respected and influential figure in the history of the Church.