Antonio Lucci was an 18th-century Italian Franciscan friar who served as the Bishop of Bovino. Born Angelo Nicola Lucci in 1682, he joined the Order of Friars Minor Conventual in 1698, taking the religious name Antonio. After completing his theological studies and teaching at various institutions, including the Pontifical University of St. Bonaventure, he was appointed to the episcopate by Pope Benedict XIII. He governed his diocese from 1729 until his death in 1752, earning recognition for his theological expertise and his dedication to the spiritual welfare of his community.
Life and ministry
As a bishop, Lucci focused on renewing the application of the Gospel among the faithful and frequently visited local parishes. He utilized his episcopal income to establish free schools and supported educational works. His leadership included repairing churches and maintaining discipline among the clergy. Additionally, he authored a significant hagiographical work concerning Franciscan saints and blesseds from the first two centuries of the Church.
Veneration
The process for his beatification began in 1764, and he was declared Venerable by Pope Pius IX in 1847. Following the approval of a miracle, he was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1889. He is commemorated in the Catholic tradition with a feast day on July 25.