Saint of the Day – 20 May – St Austregisilus (c551-624) Bishop and Confessor of Bourges , Apostle of Charity to the poor and suffering, Defender of his flock by his assiduous care against all forms of strife, Born in c551 in Bourges, France and died there on 20 May 624. Patronages – Bourges and Lyon in France.
Also known as – Aoustrille, Austregesilio, Outril, Outrille.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Bourges in France, St Austregisil, Bishop and Confessor.”
Born of a nobile family, Austregesilus’ youth was spent in the shadow of the Royal Court of King Guntram, where he had the opportunity to experience first-hand, the dynamics of power and the miseries of the people. It is said that, despite his noble origins, Austregesilus was deeply touched by the suffering of the weakest, developing a strong desire to devote himself to the service of God.
According to tradition, Austregesilus refused the marriage arranged for him by the Court, preferring to follow the Divine call to the Priesthood. This courageous choice, in contrast to the social expectations of the time, testifies to his profound faith and his desire to dedicate himself, body and soul, to the good of others.
Around 612, Austregesilus was Consecrated as the Bishop of Bourges, assuming leadership of the Diocese during a turbulent period marked by political conflicts and social tensions. Despite these difficulties, the new Bishop distinguished himself by his dedication to the people, becoming a beacon of hope and an example of Christian charity.
Saint Austregesilus committed himself fully to the pastoral care of his Diocese, regularly visiting all his Parishes and preaching the Gospel with fervour. His work was directed, in particular, to the most needy: the poor, orphans, the sick and those condemned to death. With dedication and compassion, Austregesilus did his utmost to alleviate their suffering, offering them not only material support but also, spiritual comfort.
In 614, Austregesilus participated in the Council of Paris, an important event which brought together the Frankish Bishops to discuss theological and disciplinary issues. His presence at the Council underlines his role as a reference within the Frankish Church and his commitment to promoting unity and cohesion among the faithful.
Saint Austregesilus died on 20 May 624, leaving a deep sorrow and eternal memory of sanctity and charity among his people. His figure soon became an object of veneration in Bourges and surrounds and a Church was dedicated to him in Bourges, of which he is still the Patron today.
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