Saint Cristanziano of Piceno

Saint Cristanziano of Piceno, also known as Cristanziano of Anzio, Christian, Crisanto, Crisanziano, Criscento, Criscenziana, Criscenziano, and Crisenziano, was the first person in the area of Ascoli Piceno, Italy, to convert to Christianity. He was baptized by Saint Emidius, who also gave him the name Cristanziano. Emidius recognized the potential in Cristanziano and saw to his education. Eventually, Emidius ordained him as a deacon, and Cristanziano became his trusted assistant. Cristanziano faithfully served alongside Saint Emidius until the bishop's martyrdom. Following Emidius' death, Cristanziano continued to practice his faith openly, even during the reign of Emperor Maxentius, who persecuted Christians. However, his unwavering devotion to Christianity led to his imprisonment, torture, and eventual execution. On May 13, 310, Cristanziano was beheaded for his refusal to renounce his faith. Saint Cristanziano is often depicted holding the keys to the city of Agnone, a symbolic representation of his protection over the town. In a traditional custom, no longer in use, the mayor of Agnone would present the symbolic keys to the city before the relics of Saint Cristanziano on the eve of his feast day. This gesture was a request for the saint's protection over the town. On his feast day, the relics would be processed to the mayor's office and then returned to the government, signifying that the saint had accepted their plea for protection. Another representation of Saint Cristanziano includes a silver cross, which is only displayed on his feast day. Additionally, small reed crosses were blessed on his feast day and distributed to the faithful. These crosses were then taken home and planted in fields as a means of seeking protection for crops against destructive weather. Saint Cristanziano of Piceno was born in the year 280 in Ascoli, Italy. He met his martyrdom on May 13, 310, in the same city, where he was beheaded. Most of his relics are enshrined in the cathedral of Sant'Emidio in Ascoli Piceno, where he was baptized by Saint Emidius. However, some relics are also housed in a silver reliquary in Maltignano, Italy. Although Saint Cristanziano was canonized before the formal process of canonization was established, his cultus received official recognition. An Apostolic Brief of Pope Pius VI in 1776 enriched the feast of Saint Cristanziano with major indulgences for eight days, from May 13 to May 20. Later, on September 3, 1803, Pope Pius VII issued a cultus confirmation, officially declaring him a saint. Saint Cristanziano of Piceno is recognized as the patron saint against discord, hailstorms, influenza, lightning, storms, and war. Tradition holds that during his martyrdom, a hailstorm began which would have halted the execution but endangered the crops and led to famine in the town. However, Cristanziano miraculously dispersed the storm, saving the town from destruction while allowing his execution to proceed. Apart from his strong connection to Ascoli Piceno, Saint Cristanziano is also venerated in Agnone and Casalciprano. The association with Casalciprano may stem from his close association with Saint Emidius, as this town is prone to earthquakes. His intercession is sought in these locations and throughout Italy by those in need of protection against various adversities.