Alexander Sauli (1534–1592)

Biography

Italian Barnabite and reforming bishop, Alexander Sauli renewed the Christian life of Corsica through doctrine, reconciliation and service to the poor. He renounced a promising court career, joined the Regular Clerics of Saint Paul as a young man and stood out as a professor, superior general and spiritual director of Saint Charles Borromeo. Appointed bishop of Aleria, he found an impoverished diocese with little training. He visited communities, instructed the clergy, taught catechism, pacified feuding families and provided food in times of need. Transferred to Pavia, he died during a pastoral visit, faithful to his mission to the end.