Calogerus

Saint Calogerus was born around 466 in Chalcedon and later became known as a humble anchorite whose life of prayer would bless the Church in Sicily. In a time of turmoil and persecution, he fled from Africa to Sicily with Bishop Gregorius and the deacon Demetrius, standing firm against Arianism and helping strengthen the faith of the Christian communities they served. Tradition remembers him laboring for the Gospel around Fragalata near Messina, and also as a missionary on Lipari in the Aeolian Islands. Drawn ever more deeply to silence and communion with God, Calogerus eventually withdrew to Monte Kronio, where he lived as a hermit until his death on June 18, 561. His witness of steadfast orthodoxy, missionary zeal, and hidden holiness made him beloved among the Sicilian people, who honor him especially in places such as Campofranco, Cesarò, Naro, Petralia Sottana, San Salvatore di Fitalia, and Torretta. His feast day is celebrated on June 18.