Saint Peter of Verona

Life story

Peter was born around 1205 or 1206 in Verona. His parents followed the Manichaean heresy, which still existed in northern Italy in the thirteenth century. He attended a Catholic school and then the University of Bologna, where he met Saint Dominic and joined the Order of Preachers.

He became a well-known preacher in northern and central Italy, preaching in Rome, Florence, Bologna, Genoa and Como, drawing large crowds and many conversions. He became an inquisitor against Manichaean errors: the Catholic Encyclopedia says Pope Gregory IX made him general inquisitor, while Britannica dates his papal appointment to 1251 under Innocent IV. He also condemned Catholics whose conduct contradicted the faith they professed. The Manichaeans responded with persecution, slander and threats.

On 6 April 1252 he was assassinated near Barlassina on the road from Como to Milan; Carino, one of the Manichaean group, was the chief assassin. His companion, the friar Domenico, was mortally wounded and died five days later. According to tradition, as he lay dying he knelt, recited the first article of the Creed, and wrote “Credo in Deum” on the ground in his own blood. The inquest record confirms only that he began reciting the Creed when attacked.

His body was taken to Milan and placed in the church of Sant'Eustorgio. Pope Innocent IV canonized him in March 1253, less than a year after his death.

Works and witness

• Met Saint Dominic at Bologna and joined the Order of Preachers
• Preached in many cities of northern and central Italy
• Became an inquisitor against heresy
• Assassinated near Barlassina on 6 April 1252
• Canonized in March 1253

Saints from the same country

Saint Agnes, Saint Lawrence, Saint Cecilia, Saint Sebastian

References

• Catholic Encyclopedia (1911), entry St. Peter of Verona (New Advent, cathen/11773d)
• Order of Preachers (op.org), S. Petri de Verona

Written by Anawim from documented history. Some details about ancient saints rest on tradition and are marked as such.