Barbatus of Benevento was a seventh-century bishop who served the city of Benevento from 663 until his death in 682. Born near Cerreto Sannita around 610, he was known for his skills as a preacher and his dedication to reforming local religious practices. During his tenure, he addressed widespread superstitions and participated in significant ecclesiastical gatherings, including the Third Council of Constantinople. He is recognized as a saint within the Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox traditions.
Life and ministry
After receiving a Christian education and serving as a preacher in Morcone, Barbatus returned to Benevento. He actively campaigned against local idolatry, which included the veneration of a walnut tree and a golden viper. To eliminate these superstitions, he destroyed the sacred tree and transformed the golden viper into a liturgical chalice. Following a siege by the East Roman Emperor, he was appointed bishop in 663, succeeding Ildebrand.
Ecclesiastical work
Barbatus played an active role in major church councils. He assisted Pope Agatho at a council in Rome in 680 and attended the Third Council of Constantinople in 681 to address the Monothelite controversy. Additionally, he was entrusted with the care of the grotto of St. Michael at Gargano by Duke Romuald in 673. He died in Benevento in February 682.
Veneration
The saint is commemorated annually on February 19. He is honored as a primary patron of Benevento and serves as the patron saint for several other locations, including Cicciano, Castelvenere, Casalattico, and Valle dell'Angelo. His legacy is tied to his efforts in establishing orthodox Christian practices in his region.