He was born in Cervinara on September 10, 1920 to Andrea and Maria Domenica Campana.
He studied at the Archbishop's Seminary of Benevento.
He fought in World War II on the Russian front. His unit suffered heavy losses, and he was saved only by a miracle; after a long and arduous journey on foot, he returned to Italy.
After the war he was hired by the Municipality of Cervinara and in the 1960s he became the first municipal job placement agent in Italy.
Antonio dedicated his time to serving all citizens, especially those most in need, who still today bear witness to his goodness. At the heart of his workday was the conviction of dedicating himself to achieving the common good, confident that even there he was called to sanctify himself.
In 1950 he married Maria Bruna Casale, and had three children.
In the 60s he became politically involved with the DC, gaining considerable support as a candidate in the municipal elections, and being the first to be elected.
Along with his commitments as a husband and father, Antonio continues his work in the parish and in the diocese, first alongside Abbot Mancini in his home parish of Ferrari, and then with Abbot Don Mario Buonanni in his adopted parish of San Potito martire.
He always remained attached to his home parish, particularly propagating the cult of Our Lady of Sorrows, venerated there.
Motivated by his experience in Russia, where he said he had entrusted himself completely to Saint Anthony of Padua, he promoted, with the help of the parish priest and other faithful, a celebration in memory of his patron saint; this devotion continues to this day.
He participates in the parish and diocesan GIAC (Italian Youth of Catholic Action). Within the association, he is a role model for all young people, and in fact, many wish he were a godfather at their confirmation and baptism.
Antonio loved young people.
He took part in several pilgrimages, to Lourdes because of his great devotion to the Madonna, as well as to San Giovanni Rotondo, to honor Padre Pio, who became a saint on June 16, 2002.
In 1969, with the new statute, Antonio participated in the association's renewal and became its head of the adult sector. He brought to the new AC his experience as a tireless worker, a caring husband, an admirable father, but above all, as a man in love with Jesus Christ.
He is aware that God is present in the sick and in people in need, and this is why he is a strong supporter of UNITALSI, an association that, among other things, accompanies the sick on pilgrimages to international shrines.
In the 80s he participated in parish and diocesan ACR camps, and became the grandfather of all the children.
Antonio feels that something is still missing in his life and decides to become an acolyte, thus being able to bring the Eucharist to the sick and serve the Church ever more closely.
In 2001 Antonio fell ill and began his ordeal, reciting his serviam every day, and on October 28 of the same year Antonio reached the house of the Father.
The history of your Association
it is made up of many “saints next door” – many! –,
and it is a story that must continue:
holiness is a heritage to be guarded and a vocation to be welcomed.