Julius of Novara

Saint Julius of Novara, also known as Julius of Orta, was likely born in the Greek world, though the details of his early life are not known. Tradition holds that he and his brother, the deacon Julian, came to Rome and then journeyed north as missionary servants of the Gospel, eventually making their home among the hills and waters of Lake Orta in northern Italy. In an age when Christianity was still contending with lingering pagan worship, Julius is remembered for his zeal in purifying the land of idols and for establishing places where the faithful could gather around the sacraments. Ancient legend credits the two brothers with building a hundred churches. The ninety-ninth was raised at Gozzano and dedicated to Saint Lawrence, where Julian was buried. Julius completed the hundredth on the island now called Isola San Giulio, dedicating it to Saints Peter and Paul. Julius died around 401, and his cult remains centered at Lake Orta, where his relics are venerated. He is honored as patron of Altavilla Monferrato, Badia di Dulzago, Barlassina, Castellanza, and Cittiglio. His feast day is January 31.