Saint Theonistus

Theonistus (Theonist, Teonesto, Thaumastus, Thaumastos, Theonestus, Thonistus, Onistus, Teonisto, Tonisto) is a saint venerated by the Catholic Church. Theonistus is venerated with two companions, Tabra and Tabratha (also Tabraham and Tubraham). Medieval documents give accounts of his life, which are contradictory and confusing. ), and then went on a pilgrimage to Rome. This figure is mentioned by Gregory of Tours: "Theomastus was noted for his holiness in accordance with the meaning of his name, and he is said to have been bishop of Mainz. For some unknown reason, he was expelled from Mainz and went to Poitiers. There he ended his present life by remaining in a pure confession.” The grave of this Theonistus was attested to in 791 AD. This scholar goes on to write that Rabanus Maurus “goes so far abroad as to call [Alban] an African bishop flying from Hunneric...” All three figures’ histories may have been confused.

The relics of Theonistus and his two companions may also have been enshrined with those associated with Liberalis of Treviso at the cathedral of Torcello after 639 AD.

Theonistus' cultus remained strong. In the early 19th century, inhabitants of Trevignano hung a picture depicting Jerome at the feet of Theonistus. Villagers of Falzé, whose patron saint was Jerome, protested to the bishop about this "insolent picture".