Feast of Sant’Aspreno, Primo Vescovo Napoletano

Sant'Aspreno, primo vescovo, ora pro nobis

August 3rd is the Feast of Sant’Aspreno, First Bishop of Naples. Invoked against migraine headaches, he is one of 52 co-patrons of Naples and second only to San Gennaro in importance.

According to tradition, Santa Candida la Vecchia brought St. Peter, who was passing through Naples, to visit the ailing Aspreno. Miraculously healed by the Apostle, Aspreno converted and became a disciple of Peter, who would later consecrate him as bishop. 

During his long episcopate of twenty-three years, Aspreno built the Oratory of Santa Maria del Principio and the Basilica of San Pietro ad Aram, where the altar St. Peter celebrated the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is still kept. 

In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to Sant’Aspreno. Evviva Sant'Aspreno!

Prayer to Sant’Aspreno di Napoli

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that the examples of Sant’Aspreno di Napoli may effectually move us to reform our lives; that while we celebrate his feast, we may also imitate his actions. Look upon our weakness, almighty God, and since the burden of our own deeds weighs heavily upon us, may the glorious intercession of Sant’Aspreno protect us. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.