Saint Anthony, Abbot

Saint Anthony the Great was born around 251 in Koma in Lower Egypt to wealthy Christian parents. Orphaned in his early twenties and entrusted with the care of his sister, he heard the Gospel call to sell what he had, give to the poor, and follow Christ. Anthony distributed his inheritance, provided for his sister by placing her among consecrated virgins, and began a life of prayer and ascetic discipline under the guidance of a local hermit. Seeking deeper solitude, he withdrew into the Egyptian wilderness, where his long years of fasting and vigilance became famous—especially the accounts of fierce temptations and spiritual battles that he overcame through steadfast prayer. After years enclosed near Pispir, disciples gathered around him, and Anthony emerged to guide them, helping shape the life of the Desert Fathers and earning the title “Father of Monasticism.” During persecution he visited imprisoned Christians in Alexandria, and even emperors sought his intercession. He is invoked against infectious and skin diseases, once called “Saint Anthony’s fire.” His feast day is January 17.

Saint Sabinus of Piacenza was born in Milan around the years 330–340, in a time when the Church was still finding her footing amid fierce doctrinal disputes. Formed in the faith of his native city, he served first as a deacon of Milan, learning the life of prayer and service at the heart of the Christian community. He was later chosen as bishop of Piacenza, a ministry he would carry with steadfast devotion for roughly fifty years, guiding his flock with pastoral patience and firm teaching. Sabinus is remembered especially for his clear witness to Catholic truth during the turmoil of the Arian controversy. He took part in the Council of Antioch in 372, standing with other shepherds of the Church to defend the divinity of Christ and the integrity of the apostolic faith. After a long episcopate marked by fidelity and perseverance, he died on December 11, 420. His relics are venerated in the Basilica of San Savino in Piacenza, and he is honored as patron of Caselle Landi. His feast day is celebrated on January 17.