EGIDIO da Viterbo. – Augustinian theologian and philosopher, born in Viterbo in 1469 into the Antonini family, died on 12 December 1532. He attended lectures by Agostino Nifo in Padua, heard those of Domizio Gavardo in a hermitage in Istria, and finally studied under Ficino in Florence, becoming one of his most distinguished disciples.
Returning to Rome as a convinced Neoplatonist, he drew inspiration from that system in his lectures, defending it with great honor in public disputations. He soon began his career as an orator in Florence under the guidance of Fra Mariano da Ceznazzano (q.v.), and quickly gained renown. He participated, though with moderation, in the campaign against Savonarola, whose views he later somewhat revised, eventually expressing a certain esteem for him. After the tragic end of the friar, he spent a long period in Naples, where he was elected a member of the Accademia Pontaniana.
In 1506, Julius II appointed him apostolic vicar to govern the Order, of which he was elected general in 1507 despite his reluctance. His activity was considerable, as the Holy See often entrusted him with delicate missions. With zeal and charity, he devoted himself to restoring monastic discipline and reorganizing studies.
E. delivered the inaugural address at the Fifth Lateran Council on 3 May 1522, speaking in noble French about the evils afflicting the Church and deeply moving the assembly. In July 1517, he was created cardinal by Leo X; later, he was given administrative charge of the dioceses of Nepi and then of Viterbo–Tuscanìa.
EGIDIO MARIA di SAN GIUSEPPE, Blessed, Francesco, secular name Francesco Antonio Pasquale, born in Taranto on 16 November 1729 to Cataldo Pontillo and Grazia Procaccio, died in Naples on 7 February 1812. In his youth, he followed his father’s trade (rope-making); in February 1754, moved by supernatural inspiration, he entered the religious habit at the convent of S. Pasquale in Taranto as a lay brother. After taking his vows on 28 February 1755, he was transferred to the convent of S. Maria delle Grazie in Squinzano and shortly afterward to that of S. Pasquale a Chiaia in Naples, where he remained until his death.
Virtuous and pious from childhood, he distinguished himself by the heroic practice of all Christian and religious virtues, especially by his spirit of prayer, humility, and simplicity, so much so that he inspired great admiration in all, particularly among the Neapolitan populace with whom he had frequent contact in his roles as porter and questor. He was also endowed with the charism of prophecy and performed many miracles during his lifetime, including the resuscitation of the dead and the healing of the dying. He was accordingly acclaimed as a thaumaturge. Pius IX beatified him on 21 November 1886.