Fantinus
Part of The Encyclopedia of Southern Italy.
Fantinus: (fl. end of the 6th century). Byzantine official. He was probably defensor of Palermo, although some sources put him at Naples. In AD 599 he received letters from Pope Gregory I “the Great” on a variety of religious issues including the case of Bishop Exhilaratus, the treatment of the clergy, and the defense of Jews who had been turned out of their synagogue.
Fantius, St.: (fl. late 3rd or early 4th century AD). Martyr. He and his wife Deodata were wealthy nobles from Syracuse. Before their conversion to Christianity, they were dedicated pagans who asked the gods to bring them a child. Eventually a son, Fantinus, was born. The boy was also raised as a pagan until, at the age of 12, he was converted and baptized by a hermit. Upon his return home, Fantinus begged him parents to also convert. Shortly after their baptisms, they were arrested by the authorities and the family was thrown into prison. According to their legend, they were then visited by an angel who helped the boy to escape but, for whatever reason, did not free the parents. Soon afterward Fantius and Deodata were martyred. Feast Day: July 31.