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Agilus

Saint Agilus was a Frankish nobleman who became a Christian missionary in Bavaria and later served as the first abbot of Rebais monastery near Paris. He is remembered for his missionary work and his role in establishing monastic regularity.

Feast Day
August 30
Country Or Region
France

Key Facts

  • Agilus was from a noble Frankish family and was educated by Saint Columbanus at Luxeuil Abbey.
  • He served as a missionary in Bavaria.
  • Weltenburg Abbey in Bavaria was founded around 617 AD by Agilus and Eustace of Luxeuil.
  • Agilus was appointed the first abbot of Rebais monastery in 636 AD.
  • He died around 650 AD and was buried in the Saint-Jean church in Rebais.
  • Saint Filibert succeeded him as abbot of Rebais.
Also Known As

Agilo, Ayeul, Aisle, Ail, Aile

Birth Year
c. 580
Death Year
650
Venerated In
Religious Order
Relics Location
Saint-Jean church, Rebais

About Agilus

Saint Agilus

Saint Agilus, also known by variations of his name such as Agilo, Ayeul, Aisle, Ail, and Aile, was a significant figure in the early medieval Christian church, particularly in the Frankish kingdoms and Bavaria. Born around 580 AD into a noble Frankish family, he received his early education under the tutelage of the renowned Saint Columbanus at Luxeuil Abbey in France. This period of his life instilled in him a deep commitment to religious life and monastic principles.

Life and Ministry

Agilus's early life was marked by his noble lineage, being the son of Chagnoald and a descendant of Pharamond and Frotmund. His education under Saint Columbanus provided him with a strong foundation in Christian learning and the ascetic practices of the era. Following his education, Agilus embarked on a missionary path, serving in Bavaria, Germany. According to tradition, his missionary efforts, alongside Eustace of Luxeuil, contributed to the founding of Weltenburg Abbey in Bavaria around 617 AD, as part of the Hiberno-Scottish mission.

Role as Abbot

His life took a significant turn at the council of Clichy on May 1, 636, where he was appointed the first abbot of the Rebais monastery, situated near Paris, France. This monastery had been founded by Saint Owen. As abbot, Agilus was instrumental in ensuring that the strictest regularity was observed within the community. He remained in this position until his death around 650 AD. He was succeeded as abbot by his disciple, Saint Filibert. Saint Agilus was buried in the Saint-Jean church, which subsequently became the parish church of the town of Rebais.

Veneration

Saint Agilus is venerated as a saint, and his feast day is observed on August 30. His life exemplifies the dedication of early medieval monks to both missionary work and the establishment and maintenance of monastic communities.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Saint Agilus?

Saint Agilus was a Frankish nobleman who became a Christian missionary in Bavaria and later served as the first abbot of the Rebais monastery near Paris, France. He lived from approximately 580 to 650 AD.

What is Saint Agilus known for?

He is known for his missionary work in Bavaria, where he helped found Weltenburg Abbey. He is also remembered for being the first abbot of Rebais monastery, where he ensured strict adherence to monastic rules.

When is Saint Agilus's feast day?

Saint Agilus's feast day is celebrated on August 30th.

Where did Saint Agilus live and work?

Agilus was born into a noble Frankish family and was educated in Luxeuil Abbey, France. He served as a missionary in Bavaria, Germany, and later became the abbot of Rebais monastery in France.

Who influenced Saint Agilus?

Agilus was educated by Saint Columbanus in Luxeuil Abbey and was influenced by his teachings. He also worked alongside Saint Eustace of Luxeuil.