Nicola Saggio was a 17th-century Italian monk belonging to the Order of Minims. Born in Longobardi in 1650, he initially worked in agriculture due to his family's limited means. Despite initial resistance from his parents, he pursued a religious vocation and joined the Franciscan Minims at the monastery in Paola. Throughout his service in various locations, including Rome, he was recognized for his spiritual devotion and commitment to his order.
Life and service
After joining the Minims, Saggio served at several locations such as San Marco Argentano, Montalto, and Cosenza. He eventually moved to Rome in 1681 to serve at the San Francesco di Paola ai Monti parish. A significant moment in his spiritual journey occurred in 1683, following a walking pilgrimage to Loreto. He passed away from pleurisy in Rome in February 1709.
Sainthood and veneration
He was declared venerable in 1771 and beatified by Pope Pius VI in 1786 after two miracles were attributed to him. Following a third miracle involving a mason in Longobardi, he was canonized as a saint by Pope Francis in 2014. He serves as the patron saint of his birthplace, Longobardi, and his relics are kept in Rome.