Bertulf of Bobbio
Bertulf was the third abbot of the monastery of Bobbio, known for his adherence to the austere rule of Saint Columbanus and his firm opposition to Arianism. He successfully secured papal exemption for the monastery from local episcopal jurisdiction, a significant achievement during his tenure.
- Feast Day
- August 19
- Century
- 7th century
- Country Or Region
- Italy
Key Facts
- ›Bertulf was the son of an Austrasian nobleman and a relative of Arnulf of Metz.
- ›He entered the monastery of Luxeuil in 620.
- ›Bertulf became abbot of Bobbio in 627 upon the death of Abbot Attala.
- ›He insisted on the observance of the austere rule introduced by Columbanus.
- ›Bertulf preached against Arianism, which had a foothold in Italy under the Lombard kings.
- ›In 628, he obtained papal exemption for Bobbio from episcopal jurisdiction from Pope Honorius I.
Columban Monks
About Bertulf of Bobbio
Bertulf (died 640) was the third abbot of the monastery of Bobbio, a significant religious institution in Italy. His life and abbacy are primarily known through the writings of Jonas, a monk of Bobbio.
Life and Historical Context
Born the son of an Austrasian nobleman and a relative of Arnulf of Metz, Bertulf was influenced by his kinsman's example to become a Christian. In 620, he entered the monastery of Luxeuil, a prominent monastic center in Gaul. A few years later, he met Abbot Attala of Bobbio, who was visiting Luxeuil. With the permission of Abbot Eustace of Luxeuil, Bertulf accompanied Attala back to Bobbio in Italy.
Upon Attala's death in 627, Bertulf was elected by the monks of Bobbio as their abbot. He continued the monastic traditions established by the abbey's founder, Columbanus, insisting on the observance of the austere rule. Bertulf was also a vocal opponent of Arianism, a Christian heresy that had gained a strong foothold in Italy under the Lombard kings.
Protection of Bobbio Abbey
A notable event during Bertulf's abbacy occurred in 628 when the Bishop of Tortona attempted to bring Bobbio under his own jurisdiction. Bertulf traveled to Rome to appeal this matter. Pope Honorius I received Bertulf favorably and granted the monastery complete exemption from episcopal jurisdiction, placing it directly under the authority of the Papal See. Jonas of Bobbio, who accompanied Bertulf on this journey, recounts that Bertulf was struck by a deadly fever on the return journey and was miraculously cured by Saint Peter. Jonas also attributes other miracles to Bertulf's prayers.
Legacy and Veneration
Bertulf served as abbot for seventeen years and died on August 19, 640. He is buried in the crypt of the Basilica of San Colombano. The title of saint is commonly given to him, and his feast day is celebrated on August 19. His legacy is tied to his steadfast adherence to monastic discipline and his successful defense of Bobbio Abbey's independence.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Bertulf of Bobbio?
Bertulf was the third abbot of the monastery of Bobbio in Italy, serving from 627 until his death in 640. He was known for his piety and his efforts to maintain the strict monastic rule established by the abbey's founder, Saint Columbanus.
What significant achievement is Bertulf credited with?
Bertulf is most noted for his successful appeal to Pope Honorius I in 628. This resulted in the monastery of Bobbio being granted entire exemption from episcopal jurisdiction, making it subject directly to the Papal See.
What religious challenges did Bertulf face?
Bertulf actively preached against Arianism, a theological doctrine that had gained influence in Italy under the Lombard kings. He insisted on the strict observance of the rule of Saint Columbanus, which was known for its austerity.
Where did Bertulf come from before becoming abbot?
Bertulf was the son of an Austrasian nobleman and a relative of Arnulf of Metz. Influenced by Arnulf's example, he became a Christian and entered the monastery of Luxeuil in 620.
When is Bertulf's feast day celebrated?
Bertulf's feast day is celebrated on August 19, the date of his death. He is buried in the crypt of the Basilica of San Colombano.
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