Antonio Maria Pucci was a 19th-century Italian Catholic priest belonging to the Servite Order. Born Eustachio Pucci in 1819, he entered the religious order in 1837 and was ordained as a priest in 1843. He spent much of his ministry serving the community in Viareggio, where he earned the nickname il Curatino for his dedicated service. He is remembered for his extensive work supporting the elderly, the sick, and impoverished children through various charitable foundations and educational initiatives.
Life and ministry
After joining the Servite Order, Pucci served as the pastor of the Sant'Andrea parish in Viareggio for forty years. He focused heavily on social welfare, establishing a school and the Holy Childhood Society in 1853. He also created a seaside hostel to support unwell or needy children. His life ended in 1892 after he contracted pneumonia while attempting to assist a sick individual during a storm.
Sainthood
The process for his canonization progressed through several stages during the 20th century. He was declared a Servant of God in 1932 and later recognized as Venerable in 1948. He was beatified by Pope Pius XII in 1952 and finally canonized as a saint by Pope John XXIII in 1962. His remains rest in the church of Sant'Andrea.