Saint Vaast of Arras

Biography

Saint Vaast of Arras, also known by various names such as Foster, Gaston, Gastone, Vaat, Vedast, Vedasto, and Vedastus, was a hermit and priest who played a fundamental role in the conversion of the Franks to Christianity. Born around 453 in Limoges, France, he dedicated his life to the service of God and the spread of the faith. Vaast worked closely with another prominent saint, Remigius, and together they undertook the arduous task of converting the pagan Franks. One of his most notable achievements was instructing King Clovis, the ruler of the Franks, in the principles and teachings of the Christian faith. Vaast's deep knowledge and commitment to God's word, coupled with his miraculous healing abilities, helped convince some of the pagan courtiers of the power of God. It is said that Vaast performed a miraculous healing, restoring sight to a blind person. This act further solidified his reputation and strengthened the faith of those witnessing the miracle. Due to this event, Saint Vaast became a patron saint for those suffering from eye ailments. For his remarkable dedication and effectiveness in spreading the faith, Vaast was appointed as the first bishop of Arras, France in the year 499. As bishop, he zealously worked to establish and strengthen the Christian community in the region. His gentle and compassionate nature, combined with his unwavering faith, made him beloved by the people. One of Vaast's most commonly depicted acts is his interaction with a goose and a wolf. According to legend, a wolf once brought a goose to the bishop. Rather than viewing this as a threat, Vaast saw it as an opportunity to help those in need. He raised the goose back to life and used it to feed the poor, exemplifying his deep compassion and generosity. This representation of Vaast is a reminder of his concern for the wellbeing of others and his commitment to serving his community. In addition to the symbolic representation with the goose, Vaast is often depicted with a child or children at his feet. This image signifies the numerous people he brought to the Christian faith in his area. His teachings and guidance were instrumental in helping the younger generation find their spiritual path. Another significant event in Vaast's life is when he fearlessly chased a bear out of a church. This event serves as a representation of his mission to replace the rough paganism prevalent in the region with the gentle and loving embrace of Christianity. Vaast's courage and determination in purging the bear from the holy grounds demonstrated his commitment to preserving sacred spaces and promoting the worship of God. After his successful tenure as the bishop of Arras, Vaast was later appointed as the bishop of Cambrai, France around 510. It was during his time in Cambrai that Saint Vaast peacefully passed away, sometime between 539 and 540, due to natural causes. Upon his death, the locals witnessed a luminous cloud ascending from his house, seemingly carrying away Vaast's soul. This extraordinary occurrence further solidified his reputation as a saint and a chosen servant of God. Saint Vaast of Arras, though born into a world filled with paganism and darkness, dedicated his life to spreading the light and love of Christ. His unwavering faith, numerous miracles, and compassionate nature transformed the lives of many and continue to inspire believers today. He remains a beloved Catholic saint, revered as the patron against eye diseases, children, disabled people, and the city of Arras, as well as the dioceses of Arras, Boulogne, and Saint-Omer in France.