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Praejectus

Praejectus was a bishop of Clermont in the 7th century, known for his founding of monasteries, hospitals, and churches. He was murdered alongside Abbot Amarinus due to political struggles and a land dispute. Praejectus is venerated as a martyr, with his cult spreading and relics transferred to various locations.

Country Or Region
France

Key Facts

  • Praejectus was born in Auvergne to Gundolenus and studied under Bishop Genesius of Clermont.
  • He was ordained a priest and placed in charge of the church at Issoire before becoming abbot of the monastery at Chantoin.
  • Praejectus became bishop of Clermont in 666 with the approval of King Childeric II.
  • He founded monasteries, hospitals, and churches, partly through the generosity of Count Genesius.
  • A land dispute with Hector, lord of Marseille, led to Praejectus's death at Volvic, where he was stabbed by Agritius.
  • Praejectus was venerated as a martyr shortly after his death, with an account of his life written perhaps by 690.
Also Known As

Prejectus, Projectus, Saint Pry, Prie, Prix, Priest, Prest, Preils, Preietto, Proietto

Birth Year
625
Death Year
676
Manner of Death
Venerated In
Role Type
Relics Location
Church at Volvic

About Praejectus

Praejectus, also known by variations such as Prejectus, Projectus, and in French as Saint Pry, was a bishop of Clermont who lived from 625 to 676. His life and death were deeply intertwined with the political struggles of his time, ultimately leading to his veneration as a martyr.

Life and Historical Context

Born in the Auvergne to a family of the lesser nobility, Praejectus received his education under Bishop Genesius of Clermont. He was ordained a priest and initially placed in charge of the church at Issoire. Later, Bishop Felix appointed him abbot of the monastery at Chantoin. Following the death of Bishop Felix, Praejectus was involved in a succession dispute for the bishopric of Clermont, eventually becoming bishop in 666 with the approval of King Childeric II.

Contributions and Martyrdom

Praejectus was known for his charitable works, founding monasteries, hospitals, and churches, with support from Count Genesius. A significant event in his life was a land dispute with Hector, lord of Marseille, which was heard at the royal court. Hector was later arrested and executed by order of King Childeric. Agritius, the individual who killed Hector, mistakenly believed Praejectus was responsible for Hector's death. Consequently, Agritius murdered Praejectus and the abbot Amarinus at Volvic.

Veneration and Legacy

An account of Praejectus's life was written shortly after his death, and he was immediately venerated as a martyr. His cult spread, and his relics were transferred from Volvic to Flavigny Abbey during the time of Charlemagne. The church at Volvic is dedicated to "St Priest" (Projectus), and a portion of his relics was translated to Saint-Prix in 1278. The valley of Saint-Amarin is named after Amarinus, who was killed alongside Praejectus.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Praejectus?

Praejectus was a bishop of Clermont in the 7th century. He was born in Auvergne and received his education under Bishop Genesius of Clermont. He was ordained a priest and later appointed abbot before becoming bishop.

What was Praejectus known for?

Praejectus is known for founding monasteries, hospitals, and churches, partly due to the generosity of Count Genesius. He is also remembered for his death, which occurred as a result of political struggles and a land dispute.

How did Praejectus die?

Praejectus was stabbed to death at Volvic by an assassin named Agritius, who mistakenly believed Praejectus was responsible for the death of Hector, lord of Marseille. Abbot Amarinus was killed at the same time.

Is Praejectus venerated as a saint?

Yes, Praejectus is venerated as a martyr. An account of his life was written shortly after his death, and he was immediately venerated for his martyrdom. His cult spread, and his relics were transferred to different locations.

What is the connection between Praejectus and King Childeric II?

King Childeric II approved Praejectus's appointment as bishop of Clermont in 666. Later, Childeric ordered the arrest and execution of Hector, lord of Marseille, which indirectly led to Praejectus's death.