May 28
Saint Germanus of Paris
Bishop, “Father of the Poor”
(496 – 576)
“Be enthroned, Lady, for it is fitting that you should sit in an exalted place since you are a Queen and glorious above all kings.”
Saint Germanus of Paris
Coming November 1, 2024 on Amazon
Saint’s Life Story
His Early Life
Germanus was born in the territory of Autun, a city in south central France, around the year 496. Germanus studied at Avallon in Burgundy and at Luzy under the guidance of his cousin Scallion, who was a priest.
Ordained and Then Abbot
At the age of 35, he was ordained by Saint Agrippinus of Autun, the bishop of the diocese, and became abbot of the nearby Abbey of St. Symphorian. Germanus was known for his hardworking and austere nature; however, it was his generous alms-giving which caused his monks to fear that one day he would give away all the wealth of the abbey, resulting in their rebellion against him.
Helped the Poor
When Germanus learned that some poor folk, inhabitants of a village he was passing through one day, had been imprisoned by their lord for non-payment of debts, he went to pray and shed tears, face to the ground, at the gate of the subterranean jail where the unfortunate victims were lamenting. The overlord refused to open its doors but an Angel came down and did so and the entire crowd, scarcely believing in their good fortune, came as one person, to kneel in gratitude before their benefactor. At that point the overlord gave them full amnesty and cancelled their debts.
Bishop of Paris
While in Paris in 555, Sibelius, the bishop of Paris, died, and King Childebert had Germanus consecrated as the bishop of Paris. Under Germanus’ influence, King Childebert is said to have led a reformed life. In his new role, the bishop continued to practice the virtues and austerities of his monastic life, working to diminish the suffering caused by the incessant wars. Germanus is reported to miraculously cured the King of a fatal illness. His example and his preaching brought about the conversion of many sinners and careless Christians.
Attended Councils
Germanus attended the Third and Fourth Councils of Paris (557, 573) and also the Second Council of Tours (566). He persuaded the king to stamp out the pagan practices existing in Gaul (France) and to forbid the excess that accompanied the celebration of most Christian festivals.
Political Battles
King Childebert was succeeded briefly by Clotaire, who divided the royal demesnes among his four sons, with Charibert becoming King of Paris. Germanus was forced to excommunicate Charibert in 568 for immorality. Charibert died in 570. As his surviving brothers fought violently over his possessions, Germanus encountered great difficulty trying to establish peace, with little success. Sigebert and Chilperic, instigated by their wives, Brunehaut and the infamous Fredegund, went to war. Chilperic was defeated, and Paris fell into Sigebert’s hands. Germanus later wrote to Brunehaut, asking her to use her influence to prevent further war. However, Sigebert refused and, despite Germain’s warning, set out to attack Chilperic at Tournai. Chilperic had fled, and Sigebert was later assassinated at Vitry in 575, under Fredegund’s orders.
His Death
Germanus gave his blessing to the church of St. Germain-des-Pres, named in his honor and eventually served as site of his tomb after his death on May 28, 576 in Paris, France.
Born: Around 496 in Autun, France
Died: May 28, 576 in Paris, France
Beatified: Pre-Congregation
Canonized: Pre-Congregation
Feast Day: May 28
Patron Saint: Paris, France; Archdiocese of Rimouski, Quebec
Source:
Reflection
Saint Germanus of Paris’s tenure as bishop was marked by his tireless efforts to care for his flock, especially the poor and marginalized. His love for the poor was a defining aspect of his life. He was deeply committed to social justice, advocating for the rights and dignity of the poor in a society that often overlooked them. He founded several charitable institutions, including hospitals and shelters, to care for those in need. His generosity was not limited to material assistance; he also provided spiritual support, recognizing the dignity of every person as a child of God.
Are you attentive to the needs of those around you, particularly the vulnerable and marginalized? How can you offer support, guidance, and compassion to those around you who are struggling?
Prayers
Saint Germanus of Paris,
Champion of the poor, You dedicated your life to serving those in need, advocating for justice and offering comfort to the suffering.
Grant us the grace to follow your example seeing Christ in the faces of the poor and vulnerable and to respond with generous hearts and compassionate hands.
May our actions always be rooted in a deep love for God and neighbor.
Pray for us that we may have the courage to be voices for the voiceless and to work tirelessly for the dignity of all people.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord, Who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.
Saint Links
AnaStpaul – Saint of the Day – 28 May – St Germanus of Paris (c 490-576) “Father of the Poor”
America Needs Fatima – Saint Germanus of Paris
Catholic Ireland – May 29 – St Germanus of Paris (496-576) monk & bishop
Independent Catholic News – Saint Germain of Paris
New Advent – MacErlean, A. (1909). St. Germain. In The Catholic Encyclopedia.
Orthodox Wiki – Germanus of Paris
Rev Alban Butler’s Lives Of The Saints Complete Edition – St. Germanus, Bishop of Paris
Video Link
St. Germanus- Bishop – Confessor – YouTube (cybrotius)