Priscus of Nocera

Saint Priscus was born in Nuceria Alfaterna (today’s Nocera area in southern Italy) and lived there in the third century. Chosen as the first bishop of Nocera, he is remembered as an early shepherd of the local Church, guiding the faithful with steadfast devotion in a time when Christian life often required quiet courage and deep trust in God. Though many details of his life are veiled by the centuries, his holiness left a strong imprint on the people. Ancient Christian writers testify that devotion to him was already flourishing by the early fifth century, both in Nuceria and nearby Nola. Popular tradition also surrounds him with stories of God’s providence and protection—tales of a journey to Rome to clear his name, of humble gifts offered with faith, and of wondrous help granted along the way. After his death, his tomb became a place of prayer, and his relics have long been venerated in Nocera Inferiore, where he remains the city’s patron and a patron of the local diocese. His feast day is May 9.