Saint Castor of Apt

Biography

Saint Castor of Apt, also known as Castor of Nîmes and Castore, was believed to be the brother of Saint Leontius of Frejus, although historical records are somewhat unclear on this matter. He may have pursued a career in law before dedicating his life to the Church. Castor, a layman, was married to a wealthy widow hailing from Marseilles, France. However, both he and his wife felt a strong calling to embark on a spiritual journey together. With mutual consent, they renounced their worldly possessions and marital life, entering religious life and embracing a path of devotion and service to God. Guided by their faith, Castor and his wife founded the Monanque monastery in Provence, a region in modern-day France. The monastery quickly became a center for spiritual growth and education, attracting many individuals seeking a life dedicated to God. Castor, known for his wisdom and virtue, was eventually appointed as the abbot of the Monanque monastery, where he diligently guided his fellow monks in their pursuit of holiness. As his reputation grew, he was later ordained as the Bishop of Apt, a Gaulish city located in present-day France. During his time as bishop, Saint Castor requested that Saint John Cassian write a significant work called "De Institutis Coenobiorum" (On the Institutions of the Cenobites). This influential text explored the rules and practices of monastic life, providing guidance to monks in their spiritual journey. Saint Castor of Apt lived a life of piety and selflessness, devoted to the teachings of Christ and the mission of spreading God's love. He passed away around the year 420 from natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of faith and inspiring the faithful in their devotion to God. The relics of Saint Castor are reverently preserved in the cathedral of Apt, France, where he is venerated as a holy saint and a model of dedication to God. He is particularly revered as the patron saint of Apt, and his feast day is celebrated on September 21st. In some regional calendars, his feast day is observed on September 2nd or 25th, depending on local traditions. Saint Castor of Apt, though his historical records may be somewhat limited, continues to be revered as a shining example of holiness and devotion within the Catholic Church. His life serves as an inspiration for all Christians to embrace their faith fully and commit themselves to a life of service to God and others.