Aurelian of Limoges
Saint Aurelian of Limoges is venerated as a Christian saint and is traditionally considered the second bishop of Limoges, succeeding Saint Martial. According to tradition, he was a pagan priest who was miraculously resurrected and converted by Saint Martial, who then ordained him. Aurelian is chiefly remembered for his association with Saint Martial and the hagiographical work attributed to him, the Vita Aureliana.
- Century
- 10th century
- Country Or Region
- France
Key Facts
- ›Christian tradition makes him the second bishop of Limoges.
- ›He succeeded Saint Martial as bishop.
- ›Tradition states he was a pagan priest who attempted to imprison Martial.
- ›He was struck dead but brought back to life by Martial, who then baptized and ordained him.
- ›A biography of Martial, the Vita Aureliana, is attributed to Aurelian.
- ›His relics are housed in the Chapelle Saint-Aurélien in Limoges.
Saint Aurélien
About Aurelian of Limoges
Saint Aurelian of Limoges, also known as Saint Aurélien in French, is a figure venerated as a Christian saint. Christian tradition regards him as the second bishop of Limoges, following Saint Martial.
Tradition and Conversion
According to hagiographical tradition, Aurelian was initially a pagan priest. His life took a significant turn when he attempted to imprison Saint Martial. In a dramatic turn of events, Aurelian was struck dead during this attempt. However, Martial is said to have brought him back to life, after which Aurelian was baptized as a Christian, ordained as a priest, and ultimately consecrated as bishop.
Literary Attribution and Historical Context
Aurelian is associated with a biography of Saint Martial known as the Vita Aureliana. While attributed to Aurelian, scholarly consensus suggests this work was composed much later, possibly by the chronicler Adhémar de Chabannes or around the year 955, predating Adhémar's birth. The primary purpose of the Vita Aureliana was to assert Martial's presence at the Last Supper and the crucifixion, thereby positioning him as one of the original apostles.
Veneration and Relics
The relics of Aurelian are preserved in the Chapelle Saint-Aurélien, a church located in Limoges. The construction of this chapel spanned from the 14th to the 17th centuries. Today, the Chapelle Saint-Aurélien is owned by the Confrérie Saint Aurélien, which traces its origins back to the ancient guild of butchers in Limoges.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Aurelian of Limoges?
Saint Aurelian of Limoges is venerated as a Christian saint and is traditionally recognized as the second bishop of Limoges. He succeeded Saint Martial in this role.
What is the traditional story of Aurelian's conversion?
According to tradition, Aurelian was initially a pagan priest who intended to imprison Saint Martial. However, he was struck dead during the attempt and subsequently resurrected by Martial, who then baptized him and ordained him as a priest and bishop.
What is the Vita Aureliana?
The Vita Aureliana is a biography of Saint Martial that is attributed to Aurelian. However, historical analysis suggests this work was written much later, possibly around 955, and was intended to establish Martial's presence at significant biblical events.
Where are the relics of Saint Aurelian of Limoges kept?
The relics of Saint Aurelian of Limoges are located in the Chapelle Saint-Aurélien, a church in Limoges that was constructed between the 14th and 17th centuries. This chapel is owned by the Confrérie Saint Aurélien.
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