Sabinus of Canosa

Saint Sabinus of Canosa was born around 461, and served the Church in southern Italy as bishop of Canosa di Puglia from 514 until his death. In an age marked by political upheaval and doctrinal conflict, he became a steady shepherd and a trusted defender of the faith. Twice he was sent as a papal envoy to Constantinople: first in 525 by Pope John I, and again in 536 with Pope Agapitus I to uphold orthodox teaching against the Monophysite heresy. Sabinus took part in the Council of Constantinople in 536 and earlier participated in the Synod of Rome in 531 under Pope Boniface II. Remembered also as a builder of churches, he lived the spirit of prayer and work, and was a friend of Saint Benedict, whom he visited at Montecassino. Tradition credits him with protecting his people in times of danger and even with being a safeguard against poison. Venerated especially in Canosa and Bari, he is patron of Canosa di Puglia. His feast day is February 9.