Saint Viator

Biography

Saint Viator, also known as Viâtre or Viatore, was a Benedictine monk at the Saint-Mesmin Abbey, also known as the Micy Abbey, in the early sixth century near Orleans, France. He was a close friend and brother monk of Saint Avitus and was a spiritual student of Saint Maximinus. Saint Viator felt a strong inclination towards solitude and a deeper connection with God, which led him to leave the abbey and live as a hermit near Sologne-sur-Loire, France. This decision was driven by his desire for a life of intense prayer, contemplation, and holiness. Due to his remarkable virtue and dedication to the divine, Saint Viator quickly became highly esteemed by the locals for his holiness of life. His reputation as a saintly person spread throughout the region, attracting people seeking spiritual guidance and solace. It is worth noting that there is a ninth-century legend associated with Saints Viator, Avitus, and Mesmin, which adds details to Saint Viator's life. However, this narrative seems to be pious fiction rather than historically accurate. In 1854, the town where Saint Viator was buried changed its name to Saint-Viâtre in his honor, reflecting the deep respect and veneration the community held for him. Saint Viator's feast days are celebrated on August 5th in the Archdiocese of Bourges and the Diocese of Blois in France, as well as in Saint-Viâtre, France. Additionally, his feast day is celebrated on October 16th at the Saint-Mesmin Abbey. Saint Viator passed away in the 6th century in La Trimouille, Sologne, France, of natural causes. According to a prophecy he had received, he had prepared for his death by knocking down a tree and carving a coffin from its trunk. This unique coffin was used for his burial. By the 11th century, a parish church had been constructed over his grave in Tremblevy, which is now modern-day Saint-Viâtre. In 1597, the authorities of the Diocese of Orleans enshrined Saint Viator's relics, which were mentioned in a diocesan survey conducted in 1655. During the anti-Christian fervor of the French Revolution, the reliquary was given to the civil authorities, but the relics were hidden to prevent their destruction. Fortunately, the relics were re-enshrined in 1820 and continue to be venerated. Though Saint Viator has not been officially canonized by the Church, he is considered a saint by virtue of his holy life and the veneration bestowed upon him through the centuries. Saint Viator is invoked as a patron against marsh fevers, which reflects the belief in his intercession for those suffering from such illnesses. He is also regarded as the patron saint of Saint-Viâtre, France, a testament to the enduring devotion and admiration the town has for him.