Saints and Holy People

Find out about their lives and how they changed the world

Saint Nunzio Sulprizio (1817–1836)

Saint Nunzio Sulprizio (1817–1836)

Patron saint of the disabled, blacksmiths, and workers

Feast day: May 5




Nunzio Sulprizio was born in Pescara, Italy, in 1817. His childhood was anything but easy. His father died when Nunzio was only three, and when his mother remarried, his stepfather ignored him. When his mother died, he went to live with his grandmother. When she died, he was sent to apprentice with an uncle. His uncle was horribly cruel to Nunzio and paid no attention to his health or well-being. The uncle regularly beat Nunzio, and eventually, Nunzio became very ill.

His faith sustained him through his many trials and tribulations. He had always attended Mass, prayed, and studied the lives of the saints. His mother and grandmother both encouraged him to place his faith in God. Indeed, Nunzio survived his uncle’s torturous behavior by offering his pain and suffering to God. Eventually, another uncle saw to it that Nunzio was placed in the care of a soldier who provided for his care and needs. Nunzio made some improvement, but ultimately he died from his injuries when he was only 19 years old. He was known for his gentleness, holiness, and patience.

Saint Nunzio was canonized in 2018.

(Image in public domain, Creative Commons)