Saint Aubert of Arras

Biography

Saint Aubert of Arras, also known as Aubert of Cambrai, Albert, Audebertus, Authbert, Autbertus, and Obrecht, was a prominent Catholic figure who served as the Bishop of the diocese of Arras in France in the year 603. He is widely recognized for his significant contributions to the spread of Christianity in Flanders and Hainault, particularly in Belgium. Revered for his devoutness, wisdom, and deep understanding of spiritual and temporal matters, he was regarded as a trusted advisor to King Dagobert. Saint Aubert devoted himself to the construction of churches and the establishment of monasteries in various regions, furthering the faith and nurturing the spiritual growth of countless individuals. He was known for his exemplary leadership, guiding his flock with compassion and a fervent commitment to the teachings of the Catholic Church. One of the notable accounts associated with Saint Aubert is his acceptance of the vows of Saint Waltrude, a noblewoman who sought a life of dedicated religious service. Recognizing her devoutness and calling, Saint Aubert played a pivotal role in receiving and affirming her commitment to the faith. This act demonstrated his dedication to nurturing and supporting the spiritual journey of those entrusted to his care. Symbolically, Saint Aubert is most commonly represented as a bishop carrying loaves of bread, a baker's peel, or accompanied by a donkey laden with bread. These representations highlight the significance of his role in fostering the physical and spiritual nourishment of his community. Through his work as a bishop, he not only nurtured the spiritual well-being of his flock but also sought to alleviate their physical needs. Saint Aubert passed away around the year 669 of natural causes. He was initially buried in the church of Saint Peter near Cambrai, France. In 888, his relics were relocated to the Church of Our Lady in Cambrai. Eventually, in 1015, they were re-interred in the church of Saint Autbertus, which was named in his honor. Although Saint Aubert was recognized as a saint through popular devotion, canonization in the formal sense did not occur before the establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. However, due to his exemplary life and widespread veneration, he is considered a saint by the faithful and still holds a special place in the hearts of believers. Saint Aubert is revered as the patron saint of bakers and confectioners. His association with the depiction of loaves of bread and a baker's peel signifies his intercession for those involved in these professions. These individuals often seek his guidance and protection in their daily work, with a deep belief that he intercedes on their behalf before God. The life of Saint Aubert of Arras illuminates the impact that one dedicated individual can have on the spiritual and material well-being of a community. His commitment to the construction of churches, the establishment of monasteries, and his wise counsel to both spiritual and temporal affairs left an indelible mark on the region. Today, he continues to inspire and offer his intercession to bakers and confectioners, reminding them of the importance of faith in all aspects of life.