Saint of the Day – 15 April – Saint Ortarius of Landelles (Died c580) Priest, Abbot

Saint of the Day – 15 April – Saint Ortarius of Landelles (Died c580) Priest, Abbot of Landelles, near Vire in Normandy, France. A man of great wisdom, austerity and devotion, a renowned and rivetting Preacher, a skilled and beloved leader as well as the benefactor of all the poor and the sick within his reach. Also known as “The Apostle of Normandy,” Ortario. Additional Memorial – 21 May in Normandy.

The Roman Martyrology states: “In the Monastery of Landelles in the territory of Bayeux in Normandy, France, Saint Ortarius, the Abbot, dedicated to a life of austerity and prayer and assiduous in caring for the sick and assisting the poor.”

The figure of Saint Ortarius, the Abbot of Landelles in Normandy, emerges from the mists of the 6th Century as a beacon of holiness and dedication to others. His life, although shrouded in the patina of time and enriched by popular legends, nevertheless offers us a portrait of a deeply religious man and a charismatic leader.

We know nothing about his precedents or his life before becoming a Monk of great religious fervour was appointed as the Abbot of the Monastery of Landelles, located near today’s Vire. Under his leadership, the monastic community flourished, becoming a centre of spiritual learning and culture in the region. The holiness and wisdom of Ortarius spread rapidly, attracting disciples and the faithful from all over the region.

Ortarius is considered “The Apostle of Normandy,” for his fundamental role in the spread of Christianity in the region. His fiery preaching and his example of virtuous life converted many pagans and strengthened the faith of the Christians. His evangelisation work left an indelible mark on the history of Normandy, helping to shape its Christian identity.

In addition to his dedication to prayer and preaching, Ortarius stood out for his profound charity towards the poor and the sick. He did his utmost in charitable works, treating the sick with his own hands and giving relief to the suffering. His compassion and generous and kind heart, made him a shining example of Christian charity.

The remains of Saint Ortarius rested for centuries in the Monastery of Landelles, a destination for pilgrimages and a place of veneration. The cult of the Saint spread around Normandy and the surrounding regions, with his Feast celebrated on 21 May, the anniversary of a translation of the Relics. In some calendars, his memory is also commemorated on 15 April.