Anthony Baldinucci

Anthony Baldinucci, S.J. (June 19, 1665 – November 7, 1717), was an Italian Jesuit priest and missionary, best known for his unusual methods of conducting missions.

Life Baldinucci was born in Florence, the son of the art historian and biographer Filippo Baldinucci. He attended the Jesuit school of Florence and was drawn to the priesthood. Initially he considered following his older brother into the Dominican Order, but he entered the novitiate of the Society of Jesus on April 21, 1681, and was ordained as a priest on October 28, 1695. He was then sent to study theology at the Roman College. He carried out his regency teaching at the Jesuit schools in Terni and Rome. He was admitted to the fourth vow of the Society on 15 August 1698.

Baldinucci had wanted to become a missionary in Asia, but his poor health kept him from that path. Instead, he worked in central Italy, specifically in the cities of Frascati and Viterbo. He would continue to work in this area for the rest of his life.

Baldinucci’s preaching was simple, vivid and dramatic.

Veneration The process leading to Baldinucci's beatification began in 1753. He was declared Venerable in 1873, and was beatified on March 25, 1893. The cause for his canonization was opened on April 3, 1950.

The Jesuit Church of Our Lady of Good Counsel in Florence still preserves the crucifix he wore during his missions.