Mansuy of Toul

Saint Mansuy of Toul, also known as Mansuetus, was likely born in Ireland or Scotland, though the details of his early life are uncertain. After pursuing religious studies in Rome, he was sent by Pope Damasus I to bring the Gospel to Gaul. In 365 he became the first Bishop of Toul, shepherding the people of the Leuci region with apostolic zeal and gentle firmness. Mansuy lived as a man of prayer as well as a pastor. In the woods he fashioned a humble dwelling of woven twigs, and nearby he built an oratory dedicated to Saint Peter. Tradition remembers him as a healer, credited with caring for lepers and even restoring to life the drowned son of the prince of Toul. He also established churches in Toul in honor of Saint John the Baptist and of the Blessed Virgin Mary with Saint Stephen, the latter becoming the city’s cathedral. For his fruitful preaching he is honored as the “Apostle of Lorraine,” and his tomb became a place of pilgrimage. Saint Mansuy’s feast day is September 3.