Commemorated June 8
Saint Medard was born at Salency, France, about 45 His father, Nectard, was a French nobleman, whilst mother, Protogia, was a lady of extraordinary piety ascended from an ancient Roman family which had settled Coil Protocia converted her husband from paganism and instilled into St. Medard a tender compassion for the poor.
From an early age, it was also his delight to assist the needy, to fast, and to spend considerable time in prayer. When he was old enough, his parents sent him abroad to pursue his higher studies. Upon his return, they entreated the Bishop to instruct him in Sacred Scripture. At the age of thirty three, Medard was ordained a Priest, and became one of the most illustrious prelates of the Church in France. In 530 St. Medard was consecrated Bishop by St. Remigius.
He continued his austere life and, although seventy two years of age, redoubled his labors. No opportunity was lost in his efforts to dispel idolatry throughout his Diocese. The inhabitants of Flanders were the most savage and fierce barbarians of all the Gauls and Franks, rendering St. Medard’s task difficult and perilous. He inspired them with the meek spirit of Jesus and made them a civilized, Christian nation. Having completed this great work in Flanders, St. Medard returned to Noyon. Shortly afterwards he fell sick and died, in 545. The entire country lamented the loss of their common father and protector. His body was laid to rest in his own Cathedral, but King Clotaire was so moved by the many miracles wrought at St. Medard’s tomb that he translated his remains to Soissons.
