Blessed Laurent Bâtard

Biography

Blessed Laurent Bâtard was a priest of the diocese of Angers, France, who became a martyr during the persecutions of the French Revolution. He is honored as one of the Martyrs of Anjou and his feast day is celebrated on 2 January.

Laurent Bâtard was born on 4 February 1744 in the town of Saint-Maurille de Chalonnes-sur-Loire, located in the Maine-et-Loire department of France. From an early age, he exhibited a strong devotion to his faith and a deep desire to serve God and his community.

Recognizing his vocation to the priesthood, Laurent Bâtard pursued his studies and was ordained as a priest for the diocese of Angers. Throughout his ministry, he tirelessly worked to spread the teachings of the Catholic Church and bring solace to his parishioners.

However, during the turbulent period of the French Revolution, the Church faced severe persecution. The revolutionaries sought to suppress the influence of religion and dismantle the traditional institutions of the Catholic Church. Many priests and religious individuals became targets for persecution and violence.

Blessed Laurent Bâtard was among those who refused to renounce their faith and remained faithful to their religious duties, despite the dangers they faced. He continued to celebrate Mass and provide spiritual guidance to the faithful, even in the midst of the persecution.

On 2 January 1794, in the city of Angers, Maine-et-Loire, Blessed Laurent Bâtard was captured and martyred for his unwavering commitment to his faith. He embraced death with courage and conviction, exemplifying the ultimate sacrifice that many priests and religious individuals made during this tumultuous time.

The holiness of his life and the manner of his death were not forgotten. On 9 June 1983, Pope John Paul II recognized the martyrdom of Blessed Laurent Bâtard through a decree, which allowed for his veneration by the faithful. On 19 February 1984, the Pope beatified him during a ceremony held in Rome, Italy.

Although details about the specific representation of Blessed Laurent Bâtard are not provided, it is common for saints and blessed individuals to be depicted in religious artwork holding symbols or objects associated with their lives or martyrdom. It is likely that there exist representations of him as a priest or with attributes that signify his martyrdom.

Blessed Laurent Bâtard's courageous witness and steadfast faith continue to inspire Catholics around the world. His life serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith, even in the face of persecution and adversity.