Francis de Geronimo was an Italian Jesuit priest and theologian born in 1642 in Grottaglie. A dedicated member of the Society of Jesus, he served as an energetic pastor, conducting missions throughout both urban and rural areas of Naples. He was recognized for his concise and powerful preaching, which reached people of all social standings. Although he deeply desired to serve in the Far East, specifically in India or Japan, his superiors directed him to remain in Naples, where he spent the rest of his life teaching and preaching.
Life and ministry
After studying in Taranto and Naples, he joined the Jesuits in 1670. He spent decades preaching in the Neapolitan region, often walking the streets in religious ecstasy. He worked to support mission priests by helping establish an association for workmen and a mont de piété. He also dedicated much of his time to honoring the Virgin Mary through weekly preaching at Santa Maria di Constantinoppli.
Veneration and legacy
He died in Naples in 1716 from pleurisy. Following his death, he was recognized for performing various miracles and wonders. He was beatified in 1806 and later canonized as a saint in 1839. His religious writings include a collection of sermons, and he is also credited with writing the "Diu vi Salvi Regina," which served as the national anthem for Corsica in 1735.