Saint Leonard

Saint Leonard, also known as Lienard, Linhart, Lenart, Leonhard, Léonard, Leonardo, and Annard, was a Frankish hermit saint associated with the town of Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat in Haute-Vienne, Limousin region of France. Born around 500 AD, Leonard converted to Christianity along with King Clovis I at Christmas in 496. After his conversion, he became a hermit in the forest of Limousin and attracted followers. He lived as a hermit until his death in 559. Saint Leonard is closely associated with the abbey of Saint-Léonard-de-Noblat, which was named after him. His intercession was credited with miracles for the release of prisoners, women in labour, and diseases affecting cattle. Tradition holds that he became one of the most venerated saints during the late Middle Ages.