Agnellus of Naples

Saint Agnellus of Naples, also known as Agnello or Aniello the Abbot, was born in 535 in Naples to a wealthy family of Syracusan origin. Drawn early to prayer and solitude, he spent his youth as a hermit, living near chapels dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary and worshiping at what would later become Sant’Agnello Maggiore. When his parents died, Agnellus received a large inheritance, which he poured out in mercy—most notably by founding a hospital to care for the poor. His holiness made him beloved throughout Naples. During the Lombard invasion in 581, the people begged for his help, and tradition remembers him coming forth with the banner of the Cross to defend the city, strengthening hearts with faith and courage. Seeking humility and quiet, he withdrew first to Monte Sant’Angelo and then to Guarcino, where he lived for seven years and is still honored. Returning to Naples, he became an Augustinian friar, then a priest, and eventually abbot at the monastery of Gaudiosus, where he died on December 14, 596. He is honored as patron of Guarcino and Sant’Agnello. His feast day is December 14.