Thomas of Terreti

Saint Thomas of Terreti was a monk and saint of Calabria, born at Reggio Calabria in the early years of the 10th century. He is remembered as "one of the most qualified representatives of the asceticism of the time". In youth he became a monk and later abbot of the monastery of the Mother of God (Theotokos) at Terreti. He was an example to the other monks he led, more by his holiness than by written rules. In popular tradition he is known for his piety. He spent many days in spiritual and penitential retreat in some caves dug in the tuff, still to be seen in the northern part of the village of Terreti, on the road toward Santa Domenica.

He reposed on 5 July 1000 and was at once venerated as a saint by the people of Reggio, who flocked to his tomb. The Roman Martyrology sets his commemoration on 5 July, by the Western calendar (new style). He is honored as a saint of the undivided Church.