Saint of the Day – 13 September – St Emiliano of Valence (Died 374) Bishop

Saint of the Day – 13 September – St Emiliano of Valence (Died 374) is considered to be the first Bishop of Valence, in France., although certain historians are uncertain of this. We believe that he governed this See from 347 until his death in 374. Also known as – Emilian, Emilianius, Aemilianus – some believing that reference to Aemilianus is another Saint altogether. Additional Memorial – 12 September in Valence.

According to the Life of Saint Marcellin of Embrun (Died 374), he, Marcellin, was Consecrated Bishop by St Emiliano of Valence and St Eusebius of Vercelli ..

Bishop Emiliano participated in the Council organised in Valence on 12 July 374, although his name is not accompanied by the name of the Episcopal See to which he belonged. However, this is not an unusual occurrence, especially in the light of the tact that the Council was being held in his See.

Bishop Emiliano did sign a Synodal letter at the Council of Sardica in 343/344 as the Bishop of Valence.

An ancient manuscript from Valence Cathedral, possibly dating to the 10th Century speaks of Aemilianus vir sanctissimu (most holy Aemillanus). Since ancient times, the liturgical memory of Saint Emiliano has been celebrated in Valence on 10 September. Bishop Jean de Catelan (1705-1725) moved its commemoration to 12 September, making it obligatory for the entire Diocese.