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Feast Day: August 18
Blessed Milo of Fontenelle, also known as Milo of Breteuil, was born to the Frankish nobility in the early 8th century. Little is known about his early life, including his exact date of birth. However, what is known is that both Milo and his father made a significant decision to leave their noble status and dedicate their lives to God as Benedictine monks at Fontenelle Abbey.
At Fontenelle, Milo embraced the monastic life and practiced rigorous asceticism. His devotion to the Benedictine rule and his deep spiritual insight quickly caught the attention of his fellow monks, as well as his superiors. Milo's unwavering commitment to God and his relentless pursuit of holiness made him stand out among his peers.
After spending a considerable amount of time at Fontenelle Abbey, Milo developed a deep yearning for solitude and a desire to live as a hermit. He sought permission from his superiors to pursue this calling, and it was granted. Leaving behind the comforts of the monastery, Milo retreated to a solitary life in the wilderness. There, he dedicated himself to prayer, fasting, and contemplation, seeking a deeper connection with God.
Milo's life as a hermit was marked by extreme self-discipline and self-renunciation. He lived in austere conditions, rejecting worldly possessions and pleasures in order to fully devote himself to his relationship with God. His humble existence became an inspiration to those who learned about his way of life.
Although not much is known about the specific events of his life, Blessed Milo's exemplary devotion and holiness were recognized by the Church, resulting in his eventual beatification. His feast day is celebrated on the 18th of August each year, to honor his memory and to draw inspiration from his deep spirituality and commitment to God.
Blessed Milo of Fontenelle remains an important figure in Catholic spirituality, particularly for those seeking a life of simplicity, solitude, and deep communion with God. His life serves as a reminder of the transformative power of a dedicated and authentic relationship with the Divine, and his example continues to inspire believers to pursue lives of holiness.