Paulinus of Trier
Saint Paulinus of Trier was a bishop of Trier and a staunch supporter of St. Athanasius the Great during the conflict against Arianism. He was exiled by Emperor Constantius II for his opposition to Arianism and died in exile, though his remains were later returned to Trier and interred in a church rededicated in his honor.
- Feast Day
- August 31
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- France
Key Facts
- ›Paulinus of Trier died in 358.
- ›He was bishop of Trier and supported St. Athanasius the Great.
- ›He opposed Arianism and was targeted at the Synod of Arles in 353.
- ›Emperor Constantius II exiled him to Phrygia.
- ›He died in exile five years after his banishment.
- ›His remains were returned to Trier in 395 and are interred in St. Paulinus' Church.
About Paulinus of Trier
Saint Paulinus of Trier
Saint Paulinus of Trier was a significant figure in the 4th-century ecclesiastical landscape, serving as the bishop of Trier. He is chiefly remembered for his steadfast support of Saint Athanasius the Great during the theological conflicts surrounding Arianism.
Life and Ministry
Originally from Gascony, Paulinus received his education in the cathedral school at Poitiers. He later traveled to Germany in the company of Maximin of Trier, whom he eventually succeeded as bishop. His tenure as bishop was marked by his firm stance against the Arian heresy. This opposition led to him being targeted by Arian factions at the Synod of Arles in 353. Emperor Constantius II played a direct role in his condemnation, effectively singling him out for exile.
Exile and Veneration
Following the Synod of Arles, Paulinus was exiled to Phrygia. He remained in exile for five years, ultimately dying there in 358. Despite his death in banishment, his influence endured. His remains were returned to Trier in 395, bringing a sense of closure and continued veneration to his home diocese. His tomb is now a central feature in the crypt of Trier's St. Paulinus' Church, which was rededicated in his honor, solidifying his legacy as a confessor.
Feast Day
Saint Paulinus of Trier is recognized as a saint by both the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. His liturgical feast day is observed annually on August 31.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Paulinus of Trier?
Paulinus of Trier was a bishop of Trier in the 4th century. He was a strong supporter of St. Athanasius the Great in the theological disputes of his time, particularly against Arianism.
Why was Paulinus of Trier exiled?
Paulinus was exiled because he was a target of the Arians at the Synod of Arles in 353. His opposition to Arianism led Emperor Constantius II to banish him to Phrygia.
When did Paulinus of Trier die?
Paulinus of Trier died in 358, five years after his exile to Phrygia. He passed away while still in exile.
Where is Paulinus of Trier buried?
The remains of Paulinus of Trier were returned to Trier in 395. His tomb is located in the crypt of the city's St. Paulinus' Church, which was subsequently rededicated in his honor.
What is the feast day of Paulinus of Trier?
The feast day for Saint Paulinus of Trier is celebrated on August 31. He is venerated by both the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church.
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