Blessed Amadeus Of Lausanne

Biography

Blessed Amadeus of Lausanne, also known as Amadeus von Lausanne, was born in 1110 in the castle of Chatte in Dauphine, France. He hailed from a noble lineage and was the son of Blessed Amadeus of Clermont.

Amadeus received his education at the renowned monasteries of Bonnevaux and Cluny in France. After completing his studies, he became a courtier in the household of King Henry V of Savoy and Burgundy. However, he felt a deep calling to the religious life and joined the Cistercian order at Clairvaux Abbey in 1124. It was under the mentorship and guidance of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux that Amadeus deepened his spiritual journey as a Cistercian monk.

In 1139, Amadeus was appointed as the abbot of Ilautecombe Abbey in Savoy. Recognized for his dedication and leadership, he initiated reforms within the abbey and fostered a spirit of holiness among his fellow monks. While serving in this capacity, Amadeus remained a trusted advisor and teacher to Duke Blessed Humbert of Savoy, who would later co-rule the region.

In a surprising turn of events, Amadeus, although initially reluctant, was chosen as the bishop of Lausanne, Switzerland in 1144. He accepted the position humbly and wholeheartedly committed himself to bringing about reform within the diocese. Lausanne was plagued by violence and political unrest during this time, and Amadeus tirelessly worked towards restoring peace and fostering spiritual renewal among both the clergy and the laity.

His unwavering dedication to his episcopal duties caught the attention of Frederick Barbarossa, who appointed Amadeus as the Chancellor of Burgundy. This role allowed him to extend his influence and promote justice and righteousness in a broader context. Throughout his tenure, Amadeus continued to advocate for peace and moral uprightness, earning immense respect and admiration from those under his governance.

Blessed Amadeus was not only revered for his administrative skills but also for his gift of oratory. Several of his homilies have been preserved and continue to be studied today, serving as a testament to his deep faith and ability to inspire the faithful.

He is often depicted in religious art as a Cistercian bishop, receiving a pair of gloves from the Blessed Virgin, symbolizing his piety and devotion. Blessed Amadeus of Lausanne is remembered and honored on various feast days, including August 27th, January 28th on some calendars, August 30th in the Diocese of Lausanne-Geneva-Fribourg, and September 1st on some calendars.

Blessed Amadeus passed away on August 27, 1159, due to natural causes. He was interred in the cathedral of Lausanne, Switzerland, and his tomb and relics were rediscovered in 1911. Although the year of his veneration is not specified, public devotion to him began in 1710, and his cultus was confirmed by Pope Pius X on December 9, 1903.

Throughout his life, Blessed Amadeus of Lausanne illuminated the path of virtue through his ascent from a privileged courtier to a devoted monk, influential bishop, and revered teacher. His unwavering faith, commitment to reform, and pursuit of justice continue to inspire and guide the faithful to this day.