St. Remigius, also known as St. Remi, was the Bishop of Reims in the 5th and early 6th centuries and is best remembered for his pivotal role in the conversion of Clovis, the king of the Franks, to Christianity. This event, which took place around 496 AD, marked a turning point in European history as it led to the Christianization of the Frankish kingdom, which would become one of the most powerful forces in medieval Europe.
St. Remigius was born around 437 AD into a noble Roman family in northern Gaul (modern-day France). Known for his learning and piety from a young age, he was appointed bishop of Reims at around the age of 22. During his episcopacy, the Church was undergoing a difficult period, with the Roman Empire collapsing and barbarian tribes, many of whom were pagan or Arian, establishing their dominance in Western Europe.
The most significant achievement of St. Remigius was his role in the conversion of King Clovis and his warriors. According to tradition, Clovis’ wife, St. Clotilde, had long urged him to embrace Christianity. After a decisive victory at the Battle of Tolbiac, in which Clovis prayed to the Christian God for help, he agreed to convert. St. Remigius baptized Clovis on Christmas Day, likely in 496 AD, at Reims. During the baptismal ceremony, St. Remigius is said to have uttered the famous words: “Bow thy head, O Sicambrian, adore what thou hast burned, burn what thou hast adored.” This baptism is considered a key moment in the foundation of Catholic France, often referred to as the Eldest Daughter of the Church.
St. Remigius went on to evangelize much of the surrounding region and worked to strengthen the Catholic faith among the Franks. He was known for his holiness, his powerful preaching, and his miracles. He died around 533 AD, having served as bishop for over 70 years. His feast day is celebrated on October 1st.
St. Remigius’ legacy is closely tied to the rise of Catholicism in France and the establishment of the Frankish Kingdom as a Christian power, which would later influence the course of European history through the Carolingian Empire and beyond. He is venerated as the patron saint of France and Reims.