Saint Dodone of Wallersenfagne

Biography

Saint Dodone of Wallersenfagne, also known as Dodo or Dodón, was an eighth-century Benedictine monk known for his deep spirituality and devotion to the Christian faith. He was a spiritual student of Saint Ursmar of Lobbes at the renowned Lobbes Abbey in Belgium. Born in the small village of Vaux, Lomme, near Laon, France, Dodone entered monastic life early on, seeking a life dedicated to God. He joined the Benedictine order and quickly excelled in his studies and spiritual practices. His commitment to his faith and his exemplary way of life earned him the respect and admiration of his fellow monks. After receiving his education and spiritual training under the guidance of Saint Ursmar, Dodone was appointed as the abbot of the monastery of Wallers-en-Fagne, located in Cambrai, Neustria, in modern-day France. As an abbot, he led the community with wisdom, humility, and a strong sense of discipline, nurturing both the spiritual and physical well-being of his fellow monks. However, as he grew older, Dodone felt a calling to live a more solitary life. Longing for a deeper connection with God, he made the decision to retire from his position as abbot and became a hermit in the area near the town of Moustiers-en-Fagne, France. In his solitude, he dedicated himself to fervent prayer, contemplation, and a life of asceticism. Saint Dodone lived out the remainder of his days in solitude, drawing closer to God through his devotion and penance. He passed away around 750 in Moustiers-en-Fagne, France, peacefully succumbing to natural causes. His burial took place in the church of the Priory of Wallers-en-Fagne. In 888, the bishop of Cambrai, France, ordered the re-interment of Saint Dodone's remains in the church of the Priory of Wallers-en-Fagne, recognizing his holiness and the sanctity associated with his relics. The relics were subsequently enshrined at the altar of the church around 930. Over time, the devotion to Saint Dodone grew, and his relics were later re-enshrined in a small church within the town of Moustiers-en-Fagne. Many faithful pilgrims came to honor the saint and seek his intercession. Saint Dodone of Wallersenfagne's sanctity was acknowledged through his canonization by the Pre-Congregation, the process that recognized saints before the formalized canonization practices were established. His feast day is celebrated on the 29th of October in most calendars, while some also commemorate him on the 1st of October. Though not associated with a specific patronage, Saint Dodone's life serves as an inspiration for all those who seek a deeper connection with God and demonstrates the transformative power of a life lived in dedication to faith and holiness.