Saint of the Day – 27 March – Saint Romulus (8th Century) Abbot of Saint Baudilius Abbey near Nimes and then in Saissy-les-Bois, France. Also known as – Romulus of Nimes.
Saint Romulus, an 8th Century Abbot, emerges from the mists of time like a luminous shadowadow, shrouded in an aura of mystery and faith.
The few records of his life tell of a pious and wise man, leader of a Monastery of about 80 Monks located near Nîmes, in France. This Monastery, built next to the Church which housed the Relics of Saint Baudelius the Martyr, was a destination for numerous pilgrims drawn by the Saint’s fame.
However, around 725-730, the threat of Saracen raids shattered the tranquility of the monastic community. Saint Romulus, aware of the danger and driven by the desire to protect his brethren and the sacred Relics, made the difficult decision to abandon the Monastery. Together with his Monks, he undertook an arduous journey to Burgundy, taking with him the precious treasure of Saint Baudelius’ Relics.
In the land of exile, the Benedictine Monks found welcome and support. In the area of Cessy-le-Boy, in the Diocese of Auxerre, they obtained land on which to build a new home for their community and for the Relics of the holy Martyr. Thus a Church and a Monastery were built, placed under the protection of Saint Baudelius, who became the new centre of pilgrimage.
Unfortunately, the Relics of Saint Baudelius, greatly venerated until the 14th Century, disappeared over time, leaving an irreplaceable void in the Monastery’s history.
The memory of Saint Romulus, however, remained alive thanks to mentions in scholarly works such as the ‘Gallia Christiana’ and the ‘Corona sanctorum anni benedectini.’
On the Benedictine Calendars, today 27 March was designated as the day to celebrate St Romulus’ memory, perpetuating the memory of an Abbot who, in the face of adversity, led his community with courage and faith, preserving a precious heritage of spirituality and culture.
AnaStpaul 