Saint Clarus of Aquitaine

Biography

Saint Clarus of Aquitaine, also known as Clarus of Aquitaine, Clarus of Lactoræ, Clarus of Lectoure, Chiaro, Clair, or Clar, was a priest who is believed to have immigrated from North Africa to Italy in the late 1st century. He was subsequently consecrated as a bishop and became a traveling preacher in the Aquitaine region. Little is known about Saint Clarus' early life and background, but his remarkable journey from Africa to Italy demonstrates his dedication to spreading the Christian faith. His tireless efforts led him to the Aquitaine region, where he preached the Gospel fervently and passionately. After serving as a bishop in the city of Albi, France for three years, Saint Clarus continued his itinerant preaching, spreading the message of Christ to various towns and villages in Novempopulania. One particular incident during his travels in Lactoræ, a town in Novempopulania, is documented and showcases his unwavering commitment to his faith. Chiaro, as he was known in Lactoræ, was ordered to honor an idol that was positioned on a pedestal in the town. Refusing to compromise his Christian beliefs, Chiaro courageously knocked the idol off its pedestal, affirming his devotion to the one true God. This act of defiance led to his martyrdom. Saint Clarus was arrested and sentenced to death for his refusal to bow down to the pagan idol. He met his end through beheading in the early 2nd century in Lectoure, France, the very place where he had fearlessly proclaimed the Christian faith. His steadfastness and unwavering commitment to his beliefs earned him the status of martyr. Following his martyrdom, Saint Clarus' remains were revered as holy relics and have been enshrined in various locations. Some of his relics are preserved in Albi, Lectoure, Tulle, Bordeaux, and Limoges, all significant cities in France. These burial sites serve as important pilgrimage destinations for those seeking his intercession and powerful example of faith. Saint Clarus was officially recognized as a saint before the establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, thus making him a pre-congregation saint. His sanctity and martyrdom have been venerated and celebrated across the Catholic Church for centuries. Saint Clarus holds a special patronage over the eyes and is invoked by those seeking intercession against eye problems, particularly in the town of Cologne-du-Gers, France. His feast days are celebrated on June 1st in the dioceses of Albi, Agen, Auch, Cahors, Tulle, and Périgueux. Additionally, there are two other feast days associated with the translation of his relics: May 28th in Tulle, France, and May 29th in Puy, France. Some calendars also recognize July 1st and November 5th as alternative feast days dedicated to Saint Clarus. The life and martyrdom of Saint Clarus of Aquitaine serves as an enduring inspiration for believers worldwide, reminding them of the importance of steadfast devotion to their faith, even in the face of persecution and adversity.