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Feast Day: June 6
Saint Claudius of Besançon, also known as Claudius the Thaumaturge, Claudius the Miracle Worker, Claudius of Condat, Claude, or Claudio, was a Priest, Monk, Abbot of Condat, and Bishop of Besançon in France. He is believed to have been born in Franche-Comté, France. Saint Claudius began his religious journey as a monk at the Saint Oyand-de-Joux Abbey. His devotion and commitment to the religious life were evident, and he was chosen to become the Abbot of Condat, located in the Jura region of France. Under his leadership, the abbey thrived, and it later became known as Saint-Claude in his honor. In 685, Saint Claudius was appointed Bishop of Besançon, a city in Eastern France. As bishop, he dedicated himself to the spiritual well-being of the people under his care. He ministered to his diocese with great compassion, sharing the teachings of the Catholic Church and providing pastoral care to the faithful. Despite his influential position, Saint Claudius felt a calling to live a more secluded life as a cloistered monk. In 692, he chose to resign his bishopric to return to the Saint Oyand-de-Joux Abbey, where he had begun his monastic journey. It was at this abbey that he dedicated the remainder of his life to prayer, contemplation, and furthering his spiritual journey. Saint Claudius was known for his love of literature, which he furthered during his years as a monk. He fervently studied and copied religious texts, contributing to the preservation and dissemination of knowledge within the religious community. Throughout his life, Saint Claudius performed numerous miracles, earning him the epithets of Claudius the Thaumaturge and Claudius the Miracle Worker. These miracles were attributed to his deep faith and close relationship with God. Although the specific details of these miracles might not be recorded, they have been passed down through oral tradition and devotion. Saint Claudius of Besançon died around the year 699, leaving behind a legacy of holiness, devotion, and compassion. His canonization occurred during the Pre-Congregation era, recognizing his exceptional sanctity and the impact of his life on the Catholic Church. Saint Claudius is venerated as the patron saint of Castiglione Torinese, Italy, as well as Franche-Comté, France. He is also the patron saint of wood turners, perhaps due to his connection with Saint-Claude, where woodworking was a prominent trade. On June 6th, the Catholic Church commemorates the feast day of Saint Claudius of Besançon, celebrating his life and the example of faith he set for believers. His story continues to inspire the faithful to this day, as his unwavering dedication to God and his unwavering commitment to the religious life is a testament to the power of faith and the transformative nature of God's grace.