Saint Theophilus of Corte

Saint Theophilus of Corte was born as Biagio Arrighi on October 30, 1676, in Corsica, to the noble family of Giovanni Antonio and Maddalena. Educated by the Franciscans, he entered the Order of Friars Minor on September 21, 1693, taking the name Theophilus. From the beginning, he cherished silence and solitude, convinced that quiet prayer opened the heart to deeper communion with God; he urged his fellow friars to embrace the same spirit. After distinguished theological studies, he made his solemn profession in Salerno in 1694 and was ordained a priest in Naples on November 30, 1700. His priesthood was marked by joyful preaching, patient evangelization, and practical reform. With permission from his superiors, he restored neglected convents and helped establish new Franciscan houses in northern Italy and across Corsica, including in places such as Zuani and Fucecchio. Known for a cheerful, generous manner, he combined active ministry with a steadfast call to interior renewal. He died on June 17, 1740, and is venerated as patron of Corte, Saint-Théophile, and Zuani. His feast day is May 19.