- Birth and Early Life
Saint Remigius (Remi) was born around the year 437 in Laon, of noble parents. From his youth he was remarkable for both learning and holiness. He studied Sacred Scripture deeply and quickly became renowned for his wisdom. - Bishop of Reims
At about 22 years old, despite his youth, he was elected Bishop of Reims by the clergy and people. As shepherd of his diocese he distinguished himself by prudence, zeal for the Gospel, and care for the poor and sick. - Conversion of King Clovis
The crowning work of his ministry was the conversion of Clovis, King of the Franks. After Clovis had vowed to invoke the Christian God in battle and was victorious at Tolbiac in 496, he submitted himself to the teaching of Remigius. On Christmas Day, 496, Saint Remigius solemnly baptized Clovis in Reims, along with some 3,000 of his warriors. According to ancient tradition, a vial of holy chrism (Sainte Ampoule) was miraculously brought by a dove from Heaven to anoint the king. This vial was preserved for centuries and used for the coronation of the kings of France. At the baptism of Clovis, Saint Remigius addressed him with the famous words: “Bow your head, proud Sicambrian. Burn what you have adored, and adore what you have burned.” - Apostle of the Franks
Through his tireless preaching, Saint Remigius converted multitudes of pagans, strengthened the faith of the people, built churches, instructed the clergy, and gave a model of pastoral holiness. For this reason, he has ever been called the Apostle of the Franks. - Death and Veneration
Saint Remigius died on January 13, 533 (some traditions say 532) at nearly 96 years old. He was buried in the church of the Holy Apostles at Reims, later dedicated under his name. His tomb became a place of pilgrimage and devotion.
Feast
- The Roman calendar keeps his feast on October 1st as Bishop and Confessor.
- In France, his death anniversary was also long commemorated on January 13th.
Importance
- Saint Remigius’ work made France the “Eldest Daughter of the Church” (la fille aînée de l’Église), for the baptism of Clovis and the Franks was the beginning of the kingdom’s close bond with Catholicism.
- His sanctity shows the model of a bishop: learned, zealous, charitable, and apostolic.
Collect from the Traditional Missal
O God, who didst wonderfully choose blessed Remigius, Thy Confessor and Bishop, to preach the Gospel to the Franks: grant, we beseech Thee, that we who keep his feast-day may experience his patronage with Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ…