January 1
Justin of Chieti (+ c.540)
Bishop
Roman Martyrology
In Campania and the Abruzzi, in Italy, the commemoration of Saint Justin, a bishop distinguished for his zeal and defense of Christians.
Practical advice
Calmly defend a person or a truth that needs support.
Biography
(Italian: Giustino di Chieti).
According to some authors, he was bishop of Chieti; he has been venerated in that city since ancient times. An old tradition holds that he was the city’s apostle and the first bishop of Chieti. It is certain that he was bishop during the barbarian invasions and the spread of the Arian heresy.
In this historical period, as institutions were collapsing, the people began to rally around their pastors, who were chosen from among the most charismatic figures of the Christian world. There are many Italian cities whose bishops from that period are saints. The city’s cathedral is dedicated to him. Patron of Chieti.