Urban of Langres
Urban of Langres was a Gallo-Roman saint and bishop who served as the sixth bishop of Langres from 374 until his death around 390. He is remembered as the patron saint of vine-dressers, having found refuge and converted many in the wine industry during a period of political turmoil.
- Feast Day
- April 2
- Century
- 4th century
- Country Or Region
- France
Key Facts
- ›Urban served as the sixth bishop of Langres from 374 until his death.
- ›He was driven from his home due to political turmoil and hid in a vineyard.
- ›Urban converted vine-dressers to Christianity while in hiding.
- ›He is considered the patron saint of vine-dressers.
- ›His feast day is celebrated on April 2nd or January 23rd in Langres, France.
- ›He is sometimes confused with Pope Urban I.
About Urban of Langres
Urban of Langres (327 – c. 390) was a Gallo-Roman saint and bishop who served as the sixth bishop of Langres. His tenure as bishop began in 374 and continued until his death.
Life and Historical Context
According to legend, soon after assuming his episcopal duties in Lingonum (modern-day Langres), Urban faced political upheaval and was forced to flee his home. He found refuge by hiding in a vineyard, where he encountered vine-dressers who sheltered him. During this time, Urban is said to have converted these vintners to Christianity.
The vine-dressers then aided him in his clandestine ministry, assisting him as he moved between towns via their vineyards. This period fostered a strong bond between Urban and the people involved in the wine industry, leading to his eventual recognition as their patron saint.
Veneration
The veneration of Saint Urban of Langres is closely linked to agricultural practices and weather prognostication, particularly concerning harvests. His feast day is observed on April 2nd, with a secondary observance on January 23rd in Langres, France.
Numerous old German sayings reflect this association. For instance, the proverb "Pankraz und Urban ohne Regen / bringen großen Erntesegen" suggests that if the feast days of Saints Pancras and Urban pass without rain, it heralds a bountiful harvest. Another saying states, "Das Wetter auf St. Urban zeigt des Herbstes Wetter an," implying that the weather on St. Urban's Day indicates what the autumn will be like. A saying more specific to his patronage of wine growers notes, "Ist Sonnenschein am Urbanstag / gedeiht der Wein nach alter Sag," meaning sunshine on St. Urban's Day portends thriving wine production.
Urban of Langres is sometimes confused with Pope Urban I, who is iconographically distinguished by his papal tiara.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Urban of Langres?
Urban of Langres was a Gallo-Roman saint and bishop who served as the sixth bishop of Langres from 374 until his death around 390. He is recognized for his conversion of vine-dressers to Christianity.
Why is Urban of Langres the patron saint of vine-dressers?
Legend states that during political turmoil, Urban hid in a vineyard and was aided by vine-dressers, whom he converted. He developed a strong affection for those in the wine industry, leading to his patronage.
When is the feast day of Saint Urban?
The feast day of Saint Urban is celebrated on April 2nd. In Langres, France, it is also observed on January 23rd.
What weather sayings are associated with Saint Urban?
Several German sayings connect Saint Urban's feast day to weather and harvests. For example, sunshine on his day is said to indicate that the wine will thrive afterwards.
Is Urban of Langres confused with any other saint?
Yes, he is often confused with Pope Urban I, who is iconographically depicted wearing a papal tiara.
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