Saint Honorius of Amiens

Biography

Saint Honorius of Amiens, also known as Honoratus, Honortus, Honoré, and Onorato, was born to a noble family in Porthieu, Amiens, France. From a young age, he displayed a deep piety and devotion to God. He was fortunate to receive his education from Saint Beatus of Amiens, who nurtured his spiritual growth. Although Saint Honorius was a worthy candidate, he initially hesitated when chosen to be the bishop of Amiens. He believed himself unworthy of such a sacred role. However, it is said that during his selection, a ray of divine light and holy oil appeared over his head, which was seen as a sign of God's favor and approval of his appointment as bishop. One notable event in Saint Honorius' life was the rediscovery of the relics of three saints - Saint Victoricus of Amiens, Saint Fuscian of Amiens, and Saint Gentian of Amiens. These relics had been lost for over 300 years, and it was through Saint Honorius' efforts that they were found again. This discovery brought immense joy and spiritual consolation to the faithful. Legend has it that upon hearing the news of Saint Honorius' appointment as bishop, his old nursemaid, who was baking bread at the time, expressed her disbelief by stating that the boy would become a bishop only if her baking peel turned back into a tree. Miraculously, the wooden peel immediately sprouted roots and branches, transforming into a blackberry tree, which continued to exist for hundreds of years, serving as a testament to the truth of this miracle. This event led the baking peel to become one of Saint Honorius' emblems, and he became the patron saint of trades associated with baking. Saint Honorius lived a life of devotion and service to God, constantly seeking to deepen his spiritual connection. He is often represented in religious iconography as a bishop holding a baker's peel or shovel, signifying his patronage of bakers. He is also depicted as a bishop with a large host or three hosts on a baker's shovel, emphasizing his involvement in the sacrament of the Eucharist. Other symbols associated with him include loaves of bread and a prelate with a hand reaching from heaven, providing him with bread for the Mass. Saint Honorius of Amiens passed away on September 30, 653, in Porthieu, Amiens, France, due to natural causes. After his death, miracles were reported at his tomb, and in 1060, his body was exhumed, further confirming his sanctity. Although he was not officially canonized by the Catholic Church during the pre-congregation period, he was venerated as a saint by the faithful. Throughout history, Saint Honorius of Amiens has been regarded as a powerful intercessor. He is recognized as the patron saint against drought and is invoked by bakers, bakers of holy wafers, cake makers, candlemakers, chandlers, confectioners, corn chandlers, florists, flour merchants, and oil refiners. His feast day is celebrated on May 16th, commemorating his holy life and the spiritual legacy he left behind.