Saint Altigianus

Biography

Saint Altigianus was a Benedictine monk who was martyred by Saracens. Born in an unknown date, Altigianus lived during the Early Medieval period and dedicated his life to the service of God. Unfortunately, not much information about his early life is available. Altigianus joined the Benedictine order, known for its strict adherence to the Rule of Saint Benedict, which emphasized prayer, work, and a communal way of life. As a member of this religious community, he devoted himself to the pursuit of holiness and the practice of monastic virtues. In the 8th century, the Saracens, who were Muslim raiders, posed a threat to regions in Europe. Saint Altigianus, along with other Christians, became a target of their persecution. He valiantly stood firm in his faith and refused to renounce Christianity, thus becoming a martyr for his beliefs. Regrettably, the details surrounding the circumstances of his martyrdom are scarce. All that is known is that Altigianus died in the year 731 in Saint-Seine, within the diocese of Langres, France. Despite this limited knowledge, his legacy as a martyr remains an important testament to his unwavering dedication to God. Saint Altigianus was officially canonized by the Catholic Church, although the specific date of his canonization is unknown. Consequently, he belongs to the category of saints canonized before the establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, commonly referred to as the Pre-Congregation saints. While there is no specific representation associated with Saint Altigianus, it is typically common for saints to be depicted in ways that symbolize their lives or martyrdoms. As such, Altigianus may be portrayed in religious artwork as a Benedictine monk or a martyr, carrying the tools or symbols associated with his monastic order or the circumstances of his death. Despite not having a designated patronage due to the limited information available about him, Saint Altigianus remains a source of inspiration for those seeking to remain faithful even in the face of adversity. His feast day is celebrated on August 23rd in remembrance of his martyrdom and devotion to Christ. In conclusion, Saint Altigianus was a Benedictine monk who lived during the Early Medieval period and was martyred by Saracens. Although the specific details of his life and martyrdom are largely unknown, his unwavering commitment to the Christian faith serves as an inspiration for believers today. May we look to his example and remain steadfast in our own devotion to God.