Aprus of Toul
Saint Aprus was the seventh bishop of Toul, serving from 500 to 507 AD. He is remembered for his piety, his distribution of goods to the poor, and his efforts to combat paganism in his diocese. Veneration of Aprus has been present in Toul since the 10th century.
- Feast Day
- 15 September
- Century
- 6th century
- Country Or Region
- France
Key Facts
- ›He was the seventh bishop of Toul, with an episcopate lasting seven years.
- ›Aprus distributed all his goods to the poor and lived in his diocese.
- ›He actively fought against paganism, preaching in areas like the center of pagan pilgrimage at Grand.
- ›He began the construction of a church dedicated to Saint Maurice outside of Toul but died before its completion.
- ›His relics were stolen and rediscovered in 978 AD.
- ›Forty churches in Lorraine bear his name today.
Aper, Apre, Epvre, Èvre, Avre
About Aprus of Toul
Saint Aprus of Toul
Saint Aprus, also known by variations of his name such as Aper, Apre, Epvre, Èvre, and Avre, was the seventh bishop of Toul, serving from 500 to 507 AD. His veneration as a saint in Toul commenced in the 10th century, and his feast day is observed on September 15th.
Life and Ministry
According to hagiographical accounts, Aprus was born near Trier or in Trancol near Troyes. He may have had a background in law before deciding to enter the priesthood. Following the death of Bishop Ursus, the faithful of Toul elected Aprus to succeed him. His episcopate spanned seven years. During his time as bishop, Aprus was known for his piety and generosity, distributing all his worldly goods to the poor. He dedicated himself to combating the persistent paganism in the surrounding countryside, preaching in significant areas like the city of Grand, which was a center for pagan pilgrimage and still retains important Gallo-Roman ruins.
Burial and Legacy
Aprus initiated the construction of a substantial church outside of Toul, intended to be dedicated to Saint Maurice. However, he died before its completion. In accordance with his wishes, his remains were interred in the church he had begun. A community of clerics later watched over his church and sanctuary in the eighth century.
His final resting place was reportedly the site of numerous miracles until the invasions of the 10th century. His relics were preserved and hidden behind the walls of Toul. They were rediscovered in 978 AD after being stolen by monks. Bishop St. Gerard I of Toul later had the relics of both Saint Mansuy and Aprus brought into Toul and placed in the church of St. John the Baptist. In 1802, the head of Aprus was transferred to an eponymous church, which was later destroyed. The St Epvre Basilica was constructed in its place. Today, forty churches in Lorraine are named in honor of Saint Aprus.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Aprus of Toul?
Saint Aprus was the seventh bishop of Toul, serving from 500 to 507 AD. He is venerated as a saint in Toul since the 10th century and his feast day is celebrated on September 15th.
What was Saint Aprus known for during his life?
Aprus was known for distributing all his goods to the poor and living humbly within his diocese. He also actively fought against paganism and preached in areas with significant pagan pilgrimage.
Where is Saint Aprus buried?
Aprus began the construction of a church dedicated to Saint Maurice outside of Toul. He died before its completion, and his remains were interred in this church as per his will.
What is the history of Saint Aprus' relics?
His relics were preserved and hidden after incursions. They were rediscovered in 978 AD and later brought into Toul and placed in the church of St. John the Baptist. His head was later transferred to an eponymous church in 1802.
How is Saint Aprus venerated today?
Veneration of Saint Aprus has persisted since the 10th century. Today, forty churches in the Lorraine region of France bear his name, indicating a continued local devotion.
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