Blessed Adalbert Iii Of Salzburg

Biography

Blessed Adalbert III of Salzburg, also known as Adalbert of Bohemia, was born in 1145 in Bohemia to King Ladislas II and Gertrude of Austria. He was the grandson of Emperor Henry IV, which placed him in a position of noble lineage and influence.

From a young age, Adalbert showed great piety and devotion to his faith. He joined the Norbertine Order and became a monk at the Stahov Monastery. Adalbert was highly regarded for his humility, wisdom, and commitment to the spiritual life. He was ordained a deacon and later appointed as a canon of the monastery.

In 1168, Adalbert was appointed as the Archbishop of Salzburg, Austria. This position not only held ecclesiastical authority but also encompassed secular power. Adalbert began to exercise his authority without formal approval from the Emperor, which he saw as an offense. As a result, the Emperor briefly replaced Adalbert as bishop.

Adalbert faced tremendous challenges in his quest to regain his authority and support from the Emperor. In order to garner allies, he unlawfully gave away Church property, a decision that caused controversy among his priests. His priests petitioned for a new election for the archbishop, but Pope Alexander III stood by Adalbert and supported him.

Through a series of political maneuvers, Adalbert managed to retain his position until he was formally deposed in May 1174. However, his perseverance and dedication eventually paid off. On September 19, 1183, Adalbert was re-elected as the Archbishop of Salzburg, this time with the Emperor's support.

During this second tenure, Adalbert took his duties as the shepherd of the Church and its parishioners seriously. He worked diligently to ensure the spiritual welfare of the people under his care and was known for his pastoral care and leadership. Adalbert's efforts to restore harmony and peace to the archdiocese were evident in his commitment to the well-being of his flock.

Blessed Adalbert III of Salzburg passed away on April 8, 1200, in Salzburg, Austria, from natural causes. He was laid to rest in front of the Saint Andrew altar in the cathedral of Salzburg, where his remains continue to be venerated.

Though no formal Vatican beatification has taken place, devotion to Blessed Adalbert began within the Premonstratensian Order soon after his death. His exemplary life and dedication to his faith serve as an inspiration for all those who strive to serve God and their fellow brothers and sisters.