Giovanni Liccio was a 15th-century Dominican priest from Caccamo, Sicily, recognized for his asceticism and preaching. Born into a poor family, he was reportedly associated with a miraculous healing during his infancy, which led his father to allow a neighbor to help raise him. After joining the Order of Preachers in 1445, he established a priory in his hometown and eventually served as a provincial for Dominican houses in Sicily. He is remembered as a thaumaturge who performed various healings and provided for the needy.
Life and ministry
Following his ordination, Liccio founded a priory in Caccamo by utilizing the abandoned site of an older church. He rose to the position of provincial for the Dominican houses in Sicily and traveled to preach in locations such as Naples and Vicenza. Throughout his ministry, he was noted for his simple lifestyle and his ability to perform miracles, which included multiplying food for workers.
Veneration and legacy
He was beatified in 1753 after his widespread devotion in Sicilian cities was officially recognized. His remains are kept in a silver and glass display at the church of Santa Maria degli Angeli, where they are featured in a procession held on the final Sunday of the year. He is considered the patron saint of head injuries, and a society was formed in Chicago by Sicilian immigrants to preserve his traditions.