Saint Nepotian of Clermont

Biography

Saint Nepotian of Clermont, also known as Nepoziano, Népotien, and Nepotianus, was a priest and the bishop of Clermont in France in the year 386. Unfortunately, very little is known about his life and work, making it difficult to construct a comprehensive biography. However, there is one notable event recorded in the traditions surrounding him that sheds some light on his character and the impact of his faith. According to tradition, in the year 395, Saint Nepotian received representatives from the imperial court who were investigating the Priscilliantists, a heretical group that had gained some popularity in the region. During their visit, one of the representatives named Artemius fell gravely ill. Inspired by his deep faith and belief in the power of prayer and holy anointing oil, Saint Nepotian anointed Artemius with holy oil and fervently prayed for his healing. Miraculously, Artemius experienced an immediate and complete recovery. This transformative event deeply affected him, and he was profoundly moved by Saint Nepotian's demonstration of faith and the power of God's grace. So deeply moved, in fact, that Artemius renounced his worldly position, gave away his fortune, and committed his life to serving God. He chose to enter the diocesan clergy and eventually succeeded Saint Nepotian as the bishop of Clermont. Although we have limited information about Saint Nepotian's life, this event serves as a testament to his holiness and devotion to God. It reveals his ability to inspire others towards a deeper spiritual life and exemplifies his reliance on the sacraments, particularly the sacrament of the anointing of the sick, as a means of healing and experiencing God's grace. Saint Nepotian lived until approximately 388, serving the people of Clermont faithfully as their bishop. He died within or near Clermont, France, of natural causes. His burial took place in the church of St-Vénérand, located outside the walls of Clermont. While Saint Nepotian's life story may lack substantial details, his impactful healing of Artemius and the subsequent spiritual transformation of this imperial representative stand as a testament to his virtue and sanctity. Although he has not been officially recognized as a patron saint or attributed with specific representations, Saint Nepotian's memory is honored on October 22nd in the Catholic Church. Despite being canonized before the establishment of the formal Congregation for the Causes of Saints, his recognition as a saint remains valid in the Pre-Congregation era.