|
Iconic illustration of St.
Menulf, Bishop of Quimper in Brittany (7th c.)
Feast: July 12
Menulfus in Latin, the Saint's
name is Menoux in French. It is possible that Menulf was born in
Ireland. Leaving his native land, he came to Britain, then Armorica
during the reign of King Dagobert of the Franks. The pious bishop of
the city saw the youthful stranger and asked him about the country from
which he came and his reasons for travelling. In the Breton language,
Menulf replied he had left Ireland to serve God in Brittany. The bishop
found him well educated and admitted him to the priesthood. Menulf led
a very ascetic life and became much loved by the people. When the
bishop died, the people elected him as the next bishop. As bishop,
Menulf carefully taught the people and was incessant in charity. A
pious noble who had been imprisoned, sent word asking Menulf for his
blessing. Menulf sent him a ring and a message of hope. When the noble
touched the ring to his chains, they fell apart. The gaolers, seeing
this, let him go free. Making his way to the Saint, the noble received
instruction and was baptized, afterwards returning to his own people.
Menulf made pilgrimage to Old Rome, where a paralytic asked alms from
him. Menulf healed him of his infirmity, which came to the ears of the
Pope. Returning to France, Menulf told his disciples the day and hour
of his death. Having exhorted them well, and having received the Holy
Viaticum, Menulf breathed his last in prayer. He was free from the
blemish of all sin in life, and experienced no pangs in his death,
which came to pass on the 12th of July. He was buried, as he had
insisted, with no particular notice or honour in Maliacum, which
village has acquired the name St. Menouil. After miracles happened at
his tomb, Arcadius the magnate erected a church there in his honour,
and to it a women's monastery was attached. Early in the 9th century,
his holy Relics were elevated.
Holy Father Menulf, pray to
God for us!
Iconic illustration from an
unknown manuscript.
|
