Saint Francesco (Francis) Antonio Fasani was born in 1681 in Lucera, Italy, and was originally named Giovanneillo. His parents were Giuseppe Fasani and Isabella Della Monaca. In 1695, he joined the Conventual Franciscans and received the religious names Francis and Anthony.

Francesco dedicated many years to study and was ordained a priest ten years after joining the order. He later became a teacher of philosophy for younger friars and served in different leadership roles, including guardian of his friary and eventually provincial of the Franciscan community. When his leadership service ended, he went on to guide new novices and later became pastor in his hometown.

In every ministry he carried out, Francesco was known for his humility, love, and strong devotion to God. Many people sought him out as a confessor and preacher. One person who testified during his canonization process recalled, “His preaching was simple and heartfelt. Filled with love for God and others, he used Scripture to move people deeply and inspire them to conversion.”

Francesco deeply cared for the poor and often asked benefactors for help on their behalf. He was also known for having a profound spiritual life and mystical experiences, including moments of levitation during prayer. Because of his holiness, the people of Lucera often compared him to Saint Francis of Assisi.

Saint Francesco died in 1742. The Church later recognized his extraordinary life of virtue, and he was canonized in 1986.