Saint Adelard of Corbie

Biography

Saint Adelard of Corbie, also known as Adalard, Adalhard, Adelhard, Adalardus, Adelardus, Alard, Alardus, and Adalardo, was a prominent figure in the 8th and 9th centuries. He was born around the year 752 and was the grandson of Charles Martel, the hero of the Battle of Tours. Adelard was the nephew of King Pepin the Short and the first cousin of Charlemagne. He was also the half-brother of Saint Walla of Corbie. Adelard grew up in the royal court and was well-educated in the ways of the nobility. He served as an advisor to Louis le Debonnaire, the son of Charlemagne, and had a significant influence on the decisions made by the king. However, in 773, Adelard chose to leave the court life behind and became a Benedictine monk at Corbie Abbey. In the monastery, Adelard found solace and fulfillment in his role as a gardener. He cultivated the land and maintained the gardens with great care and devotion. During this time, he also studied under the guidance of the renowned scholar Blessed Alcuin, who had a profound impact on his intellectual and spiritual development. In addition to his duties as a monk, Adelard served as an advisor to Charlemagne, acting as his chaplain and tutor to Prince Bernard. Prince Bernard would later become the king of Naples, Italy. Adelard played a crucial role in shaping Bernard's character and guiding him in matters of faith and leadership. However, Adelard's life took a tumultuous turn in 817 when he was accused of supporting Bernard's revolt against Emperor Louis the Debonair, Charlemagne's successor. As a consequence, he was exiled to the island of Héri (modern-day Noirmoutier-en-l'Île, France). Despite his initial challenges, Adelard found contentment and peace in the solitude of his exile. Eventually, Adelard was recalled from his exile and returned to his monastery. Alongside his half-brother, Abbot Walla, he founded Corvey Abbey in Saxony. This abbey would later become a significant spiritual and cultural center in medieval Germany. After a life dedicated to prayer, humility, and service, Saint Adelard of Corbie passed away on January 2, 827, at Corbie Abbey in Picardy, France, following a brief illness. His relics were collected and enshrined between 1026 and 1040, with most of them being placed in Saint-Acheuil, France, in 1827. Saint Adelard was canonized by Pope John XIX in 1026, recognizing his virtuous life and the numerous miracles attributed to his intercession. His patronage includes those seeking protection against fever and typhoid, as well as gardeners who look to him as a source of inspiration for their work. Saint Adelard is often depicted in various representations, including an abbot digging a garden with his crown lying nearby, being crowned with thorns by an angel, a Benedictine giving alms or food to the poor from a basket, kneeling before a crucifix, and overcoming a dragon by displaying IHS. He is also portrayed as a Benedictine with gardening tools and a cross, highlighting the important role he played as a gardener and his unwavering commitment to his monastic duties. Saint Adelard of Corbie's life serves as an inspiration to all who seek a life of dedication, humility, and service to others. His exemplary faith and strong connection to God continue to inspire believers and those who strive to follow in his footsteps.