Germanus of Auxerre

Saint Germanus of Auxerre was born around 378 in Gaul to the noble family of Rusticus and Germanilla. Brilliantly educated at Arles, Lyon, and Rome, he became a celebrated lawyer and imperial official, even serving as a duke governing the Gallic provinces from Auxerre. Yet God redirected his ambitions: after a confrontation with Bishop Amator, Germanus was unexpectedly tonsured and ordained, and in 418 he was chosen bishop of Auxerre. As shepherd, he gave his wealth to the poor, embraced austerity, and founded a monastery dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian, strengthening his people in troubled times and even confronting hostile powers for their protection. Around 429 he crossed to Britain with Saint Lupus of Troyes to oppose Pelagianism, defending the Church’s teaching on grace with persuasive preaching and pastoral zeal. Tradition also remembers his encouragement of the Britons and his promotion of devotion to Saint Alban, whose martyrdom he helped make known. He is honored as a patron of Alagna, Neuvy-Grandchamp, San Germano Chisone, San Germano Vercellese, Senna Lodigiana, Sillavengo, and Vigalfo. His feast day is July 31.