Gaudentius of Novara
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Saint Gaudentius of Novara | |
|---|---|
| Born | Ivrea |
| Died | early 5th century |
| Venerated in | Roman Catholic Church |
| Feast | January 22 |
 Saints Portal |
|
Saint Gaudentius (fl. end of 4th century-early 5th century) was a bishop of Novara, considered the first of that city.[1] Tradition states that he was born to a pagan family at Ivrea, and was then converted to Christianity by Eusebius of Vercelli. Some sources say that Vercelli ordained Gaudentius a priest, and that Gaudentius was sent to Novara by Eusebius to assist a Christian priest named Laurence (Laurentius) there.[2]
Eusebius of Vercelli was exiled after a synod held at Milan (355); some sources state that Gaudentius accompanied him in exile.[3] Eusebius ordered him back to Novara, where Laurence had been killed. Gaudentius was supported in his mission by a new ally: Saint Ambrose, bishop of Milan. Simplician, Ambrose’s successor, consecrated Gaudentius as bishop of Novara in 398 AD.[4]
Gaudentius preached and ordained many new clergymen. A miracle reported of his death states that Gaudentius’ head continued to speak after the saint had died, so that the clergy could record and repeat his sermons.[5]
The Basilica of San Gaudenzio is dedicated to him.
[edit] References
[edit] External links
- (Italian) San Gaudenzio
