Urban of Langres

Saint Urban of Langres was born around 327 in Roman Gaul. A Gallo-Roman Christian of deep faith, he was chosen as the sixth bishop of Langres in 374, shepherding the Church in a time of unrest. Tradition recounts that soon after his episcopal ministry began, political turmoil turned against him and he was driven from his home. Forced into hiding, Urban found refuge in a vineyard, where local vine-dressers concealed him from his persecutors. In that quiet shelter he preached Christ to those who protected him, and many were converted. The same workers of the vine then became his allies in a discreet apostolate, helping him travel from town to town through the cover of vineyards so he could continue strengthening the faithful. From this bond grew a lasting devotion: Urban is honored as the patron of winegrowers, remembered with prayers for благessing on the harvest and the weather. Saint Urban died around 390. His feast day is celebrated on April 2.