Saint Armagillus of Brittany

Biography

Saint Armagillus of Brittany, also known as Armael, Armagil, Armagilo, Armagilus, Armahel, Armail, Armel, Arthmael, Arthfael, Artmaglus, Arthmail, Arzel, Erme, Ermel, Ermin, Ermyn, Hermel, and Thiarmail, was a prominent figure in early Christian history. He was born in South Wales and was the cousin of two other esteemed saints, Saint Samson of York and Saint Cadfan. From a young age, Armagillus showed great devotion to his faith and felt a calling to a life of religious service. He embraced the monastic life and joined the Benedictine Order, becoming a monk under the tutelage of his cousin Saint Samson in York. Armagillus dedicated himself to the pursuit of knowledge and spiritual growth, steadily rising in the ranks within the monastic community. Armagillus's unwavering commitment and exemplary piety eventually led him to be appointed as an abbot of a Benedictine monastery. He embarked on a mission to spread the teachings of Christianity to the people of Brittany, a region located on the coast of France. Inspired by his deep-rooted faith and desire to bring salvation to as many souls as possible, Armagillus founded two monasteries in Brittany - Saint-Armel-des-Boscheaux and Plou-Ermel. Throughout his lifetime, Saint Armagillus performed impressive acts of devotion and piety that became the stuff of legends. One popular account recounts how Armagillus, dressed in full armor and a chasuble, miraculously tamed a ferocious dragon. According to the story, he led the dragon by a stole, demonstrating his power over evil forces. He ordered the dragon to dive into a nearby river, effectively banishing it forever. Another notable incident in Armagillus's life involves his encounter with a chained demon. It is said that Armagillus was so pure and holy that even demons were compelled to obey him. He successfully subdued the demon and used it as a testimony of God's power over evil, further cementing his reputation as a righteous servant of the Lord. Despite his deeds being surrounded by legend, there is no doubt that Armagillus's impact on the Christian community was profound. His commitment to the monastic life and his promotion of Christian teachings served as an inspiration to many. His monasteries became centers of learning and piety, attracting numerous followers and further contributing to the spread of Christianity in the region. Saint Armagillus of Brittany passed away around the year 550, leaving behind a legacy of holiness and devotion that continues to resonate with believers to this day. He was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, although the exact date of his canonization remains uncertain due to its pre-congregational status. His feast day is celebrated annually on August 16th. In addition to his spiritual accomplishments, Saint Armagillus is known as a patron saint against colic, fever, gout, headaches, rheumatism, and hospitals. The dedication of the church of Saint Erme in Cornwall, England, is a testament to his widespread veneration and the impact of his life's work. Saint Armagillus of Brittany remains an influential figure within Catholicism, and his unwavering faith and commitment to God continue to inspire and guide believers seeking a life of devotion and piety. His life serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the important role that individuals, like Armagillus, play in spreading the Gospel message.