September 2
Antonio Franco, bishop (1585–1626)
Bishop
Practical advice
Allocate a specific part of your resources today to alleviate a real need, without expecting recognition.
Biography
Neapolitan prelate and abbot of Santa Lucía del Mela, Antonio Franco was a pastor dedicated to the spiritual renewal promoted by the Council of Trent. After serving as chaplain at the Spanish court, he arrived in Sicily in 1617. He visited the sick, personally helped the poor, fought usury and took care of the training of the clergy and the catechism of the people. He used his assets to restore the cathedral and practiced an austere life of prayer and penance. He died young, leaving behind a reputation for justice, charity and total dedication to souls.
Example of
PrayerFaithPastoral leadership