Liberalis of Treviso

Saint Liberalis of Treviso is traditionally remembered as a fourth-century priest, born at Altinum to a noble equestrian family. Formed in the Christian faith under Heliodorus, the city’s first bishop, Liberalis embraced a life of prayer, fasting, and severe self-denial. In a time when Arianism and lingering paganism troubled the Church, he stood firmly for orthodox belief and, according to tradition, suffered persecution at Ancona for his witness. When Heliodorus withdrew to live as a hermit in the lagoons near Altinum, Liberalis set out to find him, hoping to persuade him to return and strengthen the faithful. Along the way he received, in a dream, an angelic encouragement and a warning of his approaching death. Reaching Castrazone near a church dedicated to Saint Lawrence, he chose the hidden life of a hermit, but soon fell ill and died there. His relics were later brought to Treviso for safekeeping during invasions, and devotion to him flourished. He is honored as patron of Treviso, Castelfranco Veneto, and San Liberale. His feast day is April 27.