Saint Leobinus of Chartres

Biography

Saint Leobinus of Chartres, also known as Lubinus, Lubin, Lubinius, Lumine, Leubinus, or Loubin, was born in Poitiers, France, to humble peasant parents. As a young boy, he worked as a field worker and shepherd, but he possessed a deep thirst for knowledge and education. In pursuit of his desire for learning, Leobinus went to the monastery at Noailles, France. During the day, he worked diligently for the monks, and at night, he was taught by them. His dedication to studying often led him to study late into the night by the light of a candle. However, this annoyed the monks, who needed to wake up early for prayers. Undeterred, Leobinus constructed a screen around the candle to continue his studies without disrupting the monks' rest. Leobinus became a close friend and student of Saint Carilef. He also studied under the guidance of Saint Avitus of Perche, a mentor who recognized the young man's potential and recommended that he join the monastery. Following his mentor's advice, Leobinus became a monk at Lyon, France. Unfortunately, during a war between the Franks and Burgundians, Leobinus was captured by renegade soldiers. They subjected him to torture in an attempt to extract the location of the monastery's treasure. Despite enduring immense pain, Leobinus remained steadfast and refused to divulge any information. The soldiers eventually left him for dead after they believed they had drowned him. However, Leobinus miraculously survived and slowly recovered from his injuries. After his recovery, Leobinus joined Saint Avitus' community at Le Perche, France. He was ordained a priest and later became the abbot of Brou, France. As the Bishop of Chartres, Leobinus was known for his dedication to reform and his participation in various synods, including those in Orleans in 549 and Paris in 552. Saint Leobinus possessed the gift of healing, particularly for individuals suffering from dropsy or edema. He was renowned for his miracles and his ability to alleviate the suffering of the sick. Saint Caletric, a fellow saint, had a special bond with Leobinus and was the one to administer his last Communion. Following his death on 14 March 558, Saint Caletric succeeded him as the bishop of Chartres. Throughout his life, Leobinus was considered the patron saint of innkeepers and wine merchants near Chartres due to his close association with them. He dedicated himself to serving God and the Church, leaving a lasting impact as a reformer and healer. Saint Leobinus of Chartres is celebrated on his feast day on 14 March, which was previously observed on 15 September. Additionally, the translation of his relics is commemorated on 9 September. He has been canonized as a saint, although this occurred before the formal process of canonization was established in the Catholic Church. Saint Leobinus is venerated as a powerful intercessor against dropsy, edema, and rheumatism. His life serves as an inspiration to all those who seek knowledge, endure hardships, and work for the betterment of the Church and society.