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Saint Andrew Avellino

statue of Saint Andrew Avellino by Pedro Alonso de los Ríos, 17th century, façade of Saint Emilian and Saint Cajetan's Church, Madrid, Spain); photographed by Luis García (Zaqarbal), 4 July 2009; swiped off Wikimedia Commons Also known as

Andrea Avellino
Lancelotto
Lorenzo Avellino

Memorial

10 November

Profile

Studied humanities and philosophy at Venice, Italy. Doctor of civil and ecclesiastical law. Ordained at age 26.

Lawyer at the ecclesiastical court at Naples, Italy. During a heated courtroom argument on behalf of a friend, he supported his position with a lie; in that setting, he had committed perjury. It shook him so badly, he gave up the legal profession, and settled into a life of penance.

Commissioned by his archbishop to reform the convent of Sant’ Arcangelo at Naples, a house of such lax discipline it had became a topic of gossip in the city. Through good example, constant work, and the backing of his bishop Lorenzo managed to restore celibate discipline to the house, but was nearly killed for his efforts when he was attacked by people who had been ordered off the premises.

The night of the attack, he was taken to the house of the Theatine Clerks Regular. He was so impressed with them that he joined the Theatines at age 35, taking the name Andrew in reference to the crucified Apostle. Master of novices for ten years. Superior of the Order. Founded Theatine houses in Milan, Italy and Piacenza, Italy and helped establish others. Eloquent preacher, and popular missioner and spiritual director, bringing many back to the Church. Writer and extensive correspondent. Friend and advisor of Saint Charles Borromeo.

Suffered a stroke while celebrating Mass, and died soon after. Legend says that his blood bubbled and liquified after death, which led some to think that his stroke had left him catatonic, and that he was buried alive; a papal investigator found no credibility to any of this.