Saint Anselm of Lucca The Younger

Biography

Saint Anselm of Lucca the Younger, also known as Anselm II, was a prominent figure in the Catholic Church during the 11th century. He was born in 1036 in Mantua, Italy, and was the nephew of Pope Alexander II. Anselm's early years were shaped by the influence of his uncle, which contributed to his deep devotion to the Church. In 1073, Anselm was appointed as the Bishop of Lucca, Italy. However, his tenure as bishop was marked by a dispute over imperial investiture. Initially, Anselm refused to accept the regalia of his office from Emperor Henry IV, as he believed that the appointment of bishops should be free from secular interference. Despite his initial resistance, Anselm eventually gave in and accepted the regalia. Realizing the importance of maintaining his spiritual integrity, Anselm retired from his position as the Bishop of Lucca and became a Benedictine monk in a Cluniac monastery of Polirone in San Benedetto Po, Italy. His decision to retire was likely influenced by his desire to dedicate his life solely to the pursuit of holiness and divinity. However, Anselm's period of retirement did not last long. In 1079, he was recalled by Pope Gregory VII. Anselm's canons, who were responsible for the religious governance of Lucca, were found to be lax in their observance of the austere life and were consequently placed under papal interdict and excommunicated. In an act of revolt against the papal authority, they even received support from Emperor Henry IV. As a result, Anselm was forced to leave his position as bishop and was driven away from his see. Undeterred by these adversities, Anselm found new purpose in his spiritual journey. He retired to Canossa, Italy, where he served as the spiritual director of Countess Matilda of Tuscany. During this time, he played a significant role in reforming the monasteries in her lands, striving to instill a sense of discipline and devotion among the monks. Anselm was a strong advocate for Pope Gregory VII's efforts to end lay investiture, which was a practice that allowed secular authorities to appoint bishops and other high-ranking church officials. In his capacity as an apostolic legate to Lombardy under Pope Victor III, Anselm worked tirelessly to settle the problems caused by the lay investiture conflict. An important adversary during this time was the anti-pope Guibert of Ravenna, who sought to challenge the authority of Pope Gregory VII. Anselm actively opposed Guibert's claims and supported the legitimate papal authority. Through his prayers and unwavering loyalty to Gregory VII, Anselm was believed to have obtained the rout of the enemies of the pope. Saint Anselm of Lucca the Younger passed away on 18 March 1086 in Mantua, Italy, of natural causes. His extraordinary dedication to the Church and his instrumental role in various ecclesiastical affairs earned him a special place in Catholic history. His relics can be found in the cathedral of Mantua, Italy. Recognized as the patron saint of Mantua, Saint Anselm of Lucca the Younger continues to inspire believers with his unwavering faith, commitment to reform, and relentless pursuit of spiritual purity. His representation as a man standing in front of an army in confusion symbolizes his determination to combat adversity and uphold the ideals of the Church.