Burgundofara

Saint Burgundofara, also known as Saint Fara or Fare, was born into a noble Frankish family near Meaux in Gaul, the daughter of Chagneric and sister of Saint Faro. As a child she was blessed by the great Irish missionary Saint Columbanus, who consecrated her to the Lord, foreshadowing the path her heart already desired. When she was later betrothed against her will, Burgundofara fell gravely ill; through the prayers of Saint Eustasius of Luxeuil she recovered, and with renewed courage she sought refuge at the church of Saint Stephen in Meaux, choosing Christ over an unwanted marriage. With Eustasius’s support and the approval of Bishop Gundoald of Meaux, she founded a monastery on her family’s lands. First called Evoriacum, it came to be known as Faremoutiers in her honor, and she served as its first abbess, guiding many souls in prayer and consecrated life. She is venerated as the holy foundress of Faremoutiers and patroness of Cinisi and Faremoutiers. Her feast day is celebrated on December 7.