St. Zeno of Verona

St. Zeno of Verona was bishop of Verona in northern Italy in the fourth century, most likely of African origin, as his style, learning, and turns of thought suggest a background in the vigorous Christian culture of Roman North Africa. He governed the Church of Verona for about a decade in the later part of the century, a zealous shepherd who promoted the baptism of converts, the consecration of virgins, and care for the poor.

He is remembered chiefly through some ninety short sermons, or tractates, that survive under his name, brief and vivid addresses on the mysteries of the faith, the sacraments of baptism and the Eucharist, the moral life, and the feasts of the Church. These homilies are a valuable window onto the liturgy, catechesis, and daily Christian life of the early Church in Italy, and reflect the ongoing struggle against paganism and the Arian heresy. He died about 371 or 380, and long tradition venerates him as a martyr and patron of Verona. His memory is kept on 12 April.