Saint of the Day – 24 June – Saint Simplicius (Died c375) Bishop and Confessor of Autun, married but living in a chaste marriage by mutual consent, Defender of the Faith against heresies, excellent administrator and devoted and zealous shepherd of his flock paying great attention to the temporal and spiritual needs of the poor and lowly. Miracle-worker. He led his Diocese with wisdom and compassion, preaching the Gospel and fighting the heresies which threatened to corrupt the faith of the faithful.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Autun, the demise of St Simplicius, Bishop and Confessor.”
Simplicius was born into a noble Gallo-Roman family in Autun, in present-day France. From a young age, he stood out for his piety and moral rigour.
At a time when society was still permeated by pagan customs, Simplicius and his wife, a woman of equal virtue, chose to live in chastity, while remaining united in marriage. This bold and unconventional choice testifies to the depth of their faith and their desire to consecrate themselves entirely to God.
Simplicius’ fame for sanctity and wisdom soon spread, winning the applause and esteem of his fellow citizens. Upon the death of Bishop Hegemonius, the choice of successor fell unanimously upon him. Recognising in him a man of profound faith and exceptional virtue, the people of Autun saw in Simplicius, the idealshepherd for their community.
Having assumed the Episcopate, Simplicius devoted himself with zeal and self-denial to his pastoral task. His work was distinguished by the particular attention paid to the poorest and the needy, to whom he offered relief and material and spiritual support.
The life of Saint Simplicius was studded with miracles and wonders which consolidated his reputation for sanctity. Among the most famous is the miracle performed to expose the falsity of the pagan cult of the pagan goddess, Cybele Berecintiana. According to tradition, Simplicius, with a gesture of unshakable faith, caused the statue of the goddess to collapse, demonstrating the futility of idolatry and converting numerous pagans to Christianity.
Another episode exemplifies his moral integrity and his unshakable faith. Unjustly accused of immorality by his jealous detractors, Simplicius subjected himself to the test of fire, walking barefoot on burning coals. He emerged unscathed from this ordeal, proving his innocence and strengthening his spiritual authority.
Saint Simplicius died in Autun around 375, leaving behind an invaluable spiritual legacy. His memory was immediately venerated by the faithful who considered him a miracle-worker and an intercessor with God. His remains were buried in the Cathedral of Autun, where they became a place of pilgrimage for devotees from all over the region and further afield.
Even today, Saint Simplicius is highly venerated by the Church which celebrates his memory on 24 June. (Author: Franco Diego).
AnaStpaul 