Turibius of Astorga

Saint Turibius of Astorga was born in Spain, though the place and date of his birth are not known. By the mid-fifth century he was serving the Church as archdeacon of Tui, distinguished for his zeal, learning, and firm love for the unity of the faith. Chosen as bishop of Astorga, Turibius became a vigilant shepherd of his people, strengthening ecclesiastical discipline and guarding the flock against error. In a time when Priscillianism troubled Galicia with distorted teaching, he stood as a courageous defender of Nicene Christianity, laboring to preserve the Church’s true confession of Christ. His steadfast witness drew the support of Pope Saint Leo the Great, whose surviving letter reflects the esteem in which Turibius was held. In 446 he convened a local synod, seeking to heal divisions and guide the faithful in truth. Turibius died at Astorga in 460 and was soon revered as a saint. Tradition holds that his relics, along with a fragment of the True Cross he brought from Jerusalem, were later transferred to Liébana. He is honored as patron of Astorga. His feast day is April 16.