July 18 translation of relics (Aug 16 Gallican calendar) Saint Arnulf of Metz (Arnold, Arnoul) Bishop, Hermit.
July 18 translation of relics (Aug 16 Gallican calendar) Saint Arnulf of Metz (Arnold, Arnoul) Bishop, Hermit.
580 - 640
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Arnulf was a courtier of the Austrian King Theodebert II, a valiant warrior, and a valued adviser. He married the noble Doda (the marriage of his son Ansegisel to Begga, daughter of Blessed Pepin of Landen, produced the Carolingian line of kings of France).
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Arnulf desired to become a monk at Lérins. However, when his wife took the veil and Arnulf was at the point of entering Lérins, he was appointed bishop of Metz about 610. He played a prominent role in affairs of state, was one of those instrumental in making Clotaire of Neustria king of Austrasia, and was chief counselor to Dagobert, son of King Clotaire, when the king appointed him king of Austrasia.
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About 626, Arnulf resigned his see and retired to a hermitage near the abbey of Remiremont (Benedictines, Delaney, Encyclopedia).
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In art, Saint Arnulf is portrayed as a bishop with a coat of mail under his cope. He may also be shown (1) with a fish having a ring in its mouth; (2) blessing a burning castle; or (3) washing the feet of the poor (Roeder). He is venerated at Remiremont. Like Saint Antony, Arnulf is invoked to find lost articles. He is also the patron saint of music, millers, and brewers (Roeder).
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Eternal Father, I wish to honor St. Arnulf of Metz, and I give Thee thanks for all the graces Thou hast bestowed upon him. I ask Thee to please increase grace in my soul through the merits of this saint, and I commit the end of my life to him by this special prayer, so that by virtue of Thy goodness and promise, St. Arnulf of Metz might be my advocate and provide whatever is needed at that hour. Amen.