Saint Hadelin of Chelles

Biography

Saint Hadelin of Chelles, also known as Hadelin of Dinant, Adelino, Adelin, or Adelinus, was born to the nobility in Gascony, modern-day France. He was a Benedictine monk and a spiritual student of Saint Remaclus, a renowned monastic figure of his time. Saint Hadelin worked closely with Remaclus at various locations, such as Solignac, Maastricht in the Netherlands, and Stavelot in Belgium. Under the guidance of Saint Remaclus and with the assistance of Pepin of Heristal, Saint Hadelin founded the Chelles Abbey in the diocese of Liege, Belgium. This monastic establishment became a significant center for spiritual and intellectual pursuits. Saint Hadelin was ordained as a priest by Saint Remaclus, which further reinforced his commitment to the religious life and the service of God. After his notable achievements in establishing the Chelles Abbey, Saint Hadelin chose to spend his later years as a hermit near Dinant, a town located along the Meuse River in Belgium. In this solitary life dedicated to prayer and contemplation, he sought a deeper connection with God and a heightened spiritual understanding. Saint Hadelin of Chelles passed away around the year 690 at the monastery of Celles, located in the region of Namur, Belgium. His death was attributed to natural causes. In 1338, his relics were transferred to the Visé church near Liege, Belgium, where they were honored and venerated by the faithful. Although not officially canonized by the Church in the Pre-Congregation era, Saint Hadelin is venerated as a saint. His feast days are celebrated on 3 February and 11 October, the latter being the date of the translation of his relics. Saint Hadelin is recognized as the patron saint of Visé, Belgium, where his relics are held in high reverence. His life and example serve as an inspiration to all those seeking spiritual growth and a life devoted to God's service.