Saint Prospero of Tarragona

Biography

Saint Prospero of Tarragona, also known as Prosper of Capodimonte, was a prominent figure in the Catholic Church during the 7th and 8th centuries. Born in Spain, he later became the Bishop of Tarragona, a city in northeastern Spain, around the year 693. The most notable event in Saint Prospero's life occurred in 711 when he and a group of fellow clergy were forced to flee their homeland ahead of the invading Muslim forces. In order to safeguard the sacred treasures of the Cathedral of Tarragona, including the liturgical books and the relics of Saint Fructuosus of Tarragona and other martyrs, Prospero led his companions on a journey out of Spain. Accompanied by his cathedral priests Giustino and Procopio, and cathedral deacons Marziale, Pantaleone, and Giorgio, Saint Prospero embarked on a treacherous journey across the Mediterranean Sea. They initially sought refuge in Cagliari, a city in Sardinia, but eventually settled along the coast of Liguria near Genoa, Italy. It was in this new land that Saint Prospero laid the foundation for the Benedictine monastery of Capodimonte. The monastery's church became the final resting place for the relics the group had brought with them, as well as their own tombs. Here, they were all subsequently buried after their respective deaths. Saint Prospero's leadership and dedication to preserving the holiness of the Church during a time of intense persecution and upheaval earned him great veneration. Although his specific representation or symbols are unknown, his legacy in the Catholic Church remains significant. Saint Prospero of Tarragona passed away around 715 in Tarragona, Spain, due to natural causes. Despite his pre-congregation status, his extraordinary life and contributions were recognized by Pope Pius IX on 4 May 1854 when the veneration of Saint Prospero was approved in the parish church of Camogli, Italy. While Saint Prospero is not commonly associated with a particular patronage, his story serves as an inspiration for those facing adversity and persecution. His dedication to preserving the faith and his commitment to monastic life continue to inspire believers to this day. Saint Prospero reminds us of the importance of fidelity to one's calling and the strength of faith in the face of challenging circumstances.