Saint Zeno of Verona was born in the year 300, in Mauretania, North Africa. He was a follower of Saint Athanasius of Alexandria and Zeno  accompanied him to Verona, Italy, by around 340.

Zeno became Bishop of Verona in 362 and his episcopate lasted for about ten years, until his death. He was a noted theological writer, who wrote extensively on the virgin birth of Christ and other theological matters.

He was a strong opponent of Arianism and was very particular about discipline among the clergy and in liturgical life. Zeno had brought about many reforms in the church; he had changed the way Agape feast was celebrated and forbade funeral masses being accompanied by attendees' loud groans and wailing.

Zeno's other reforms included instructions concerning adult baptism (which occurred by complete immersion) and issuing medals to people who were newly baptized to the Catholic faith. He had baptized many people and won converts back from Arianism.

In spite of being a Bishop, he lived a life of poverty. During his episcopate, Zeno built a cathedral, founded a convent and trained priests to work in the diocese.

Saint Zeno is the patron saint of fishermen, the city of Verona, new-born babies as well as children learning to speak and walk.

Other Saints of the Day

1. Saint Teresa of the Andes
2. Saint Joseph Moscati
3. Saint David Uribe-Velasco
4. Saint Alferius of La Cava
5. Saint Sabas the Lector

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