Blessed Alericus

Biography

Blessed Alericus, also known as Alaric, Alarico, Adelric, Adelrico, Adalrich, Adalricus, and Adalrai, was born into the noble family of Duke Burhard II of Swabia. Little is known about his early life, including his birthdate and exact place of birth.

Alericus received his education at Einsiedeln, a renowned abbey in Switzerland known for its strict adherence to the Benedictine rule. During his time there, he developed a deep spiritual devotion and a desire to dedicate his life to God. Consequently, he chose to become a monk within the walls of Einsiedeln.

After spending some time as a monk, Alericus felt called to a more secluded life of solitary prayer and contemplation. Inspired by the example of his mother, who had taken up residence on the island of Ufnau due to her diagnosis with leprosy, Alericus decided to follow in her footsteps. He withdrew to the island, located in Lake Zurich, Switzerland, and there he built a church dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Throughout his time as a hermit on the island of Ufnau, Alericus lived a life of profound holiness and austerity. Legends surrounding him tell of his unwavering faith and miraculous encounters. One such story recounts that Alericus was miraculously fed by angels who brought him sustenance on the island.

After a life dedicated to contemplative prayer and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Blessed Alericus died in the year 975 from natural causes. Although the exact date of his birth and the details surrounding his death are unknown, his feast day is celebrated on September 29th.

Blessed Alericus has not been officially canonized as a saint, but he is venerated locally for his exemplary life and spiritual contributions. His heroic virtue and sanctity have garnered him the title of "Blessed" and continue to inspire the faithful to this day.