Saint Aymard of Cluny

Biography

Saint Aymard of Cluny, also known as Aimaro, Aimarus, or Aymardus, was a Benedictine monk who played a significant role in the history and development of Cluny Abbey. Born in 910, Aymard came from humble origins and lived during a time of great change and turmoil in Europe. Aymard's life became intertwined with that of another renowned saint, Saint Odo of Cluny. Both men joined the Benedictine Order and became brothers at the nearby Cluny Abbey. Aymard's dedication to the monastic life and his abilities as a manager quickly garnered attention, leading to his appointment as the third abbot of Cluny Abbey in 942. As abbot, Aymard displayed exceptional skill in cultivating relationships with the wealthy and powerful members of society. Through these connections, he secured numerous donations and resources for the abbey, allowing it to flourish and expand its influence. Aymard's vision for Cluny Abbey extended beyond its immediate boundaries. He actively facilitated the establishment of Cluniac houses throughout the region, spreading the Benedictine ideals and contributing to the development of a network of monastic communities. While Aymard was highly regarded for his managerial abilities and his success in expanding the abbey's influence, his later years presented a challenge. He began to lose his sight, which prompted Saint Mayeul to step in as his assistant and co-adjutor. Eventually, Aymard decided to pass on his leadership to Mayeul, abdicating his position and allowing Mayeul to become the abbot of Cluny Abbey. Following his resignation, Aymard chose to spend the remaining years of his life in solitary prayer and devotion. He lived as a simple, humble monk, dedicating himself to a life of piety and contemplation. Aymard's death occurred in 965 at Cluny Abbey, when he succumbed to natural causes. Although Aymard's canonization took place before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, he is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church. His feast days are celebrated on October 5th and November 19th for those who follow the Benedictine tradition. As of now, there is no specific patronage associated with Saint Aymard of Cluny. However, his legacy lives on through Cluny Abbey and the Cluniac reforms, which had a profound impact on the Church during the Middle Ages. In summary, Saint Aymard of Cluny was a Benedictine monk who served as the third abbot of Cluny Abbey. Through his managerial skills and influential connections, he played a crucial role in expanding the abbey's reach and fostering the establishment of Cluniac houses. In his later years, Aymard passed on his leadership and lived as a devoted and prayerful monk until his death in 965.