Saint Guarinus of Sion

Biography

Saint Guarinus of Sion, also known as Guarinus of Molesmes, Guarinus of Sitten, Guarinus of Zion, and by various other similar names, was born around 1065 to a noble family in Pont-à-Mousson, Lorraine, in modern-day France. From his early days, he showed a deep devotion to God and a strong desire to devote his life to the service of the Church. Guarinus began his spiritual journey as a Cistercian Benedictine monk at the renowned monastery of Molesmes in Laignes, Côte-d’Or, Burgundy, France. It was there that he had the privilege of being mentored by Saint Robert of Molesmes, a significant figure in the Cistercian Order. Under Saint Robert's guidance, Guarinus imbibed the teachings of the Benedictine and Cistercian traditions, which emphasized a contemplative and ascetic way of life rooted in prayer, solitude, and devotion to God. Recognizing his exceptional zeal and dedication, Guarinus, together with a few other like-minded monks, played a crucial role in establishing the monastery of Aulps in the diocese of Geneva, Switzerland. This new monastery sought to uphold the fundamental principles of the Cistercian Order and provide a spiritual haven for monks seeking a more austere and disciplined life. In 1113, Guarinus was chosen as the second abbot of the burgeoning monastery of Aulps. During his 37-year tenure as abbot, he worked tirelessly to promote the growth of the abbey and the spiritual development of its monks. Guarinus led by example, embracing the rigorous lifestyle prescribed by the Cistercian Rule and constantly encouraging his brothers to adhere to it faithfully. In his quest to ensure that the monastery remained true to its founding principles, Guarinus took the decision in 1120 to have Aulps transferred from the jurisdiction of Molesmes to that of Clairvaux. This move aimed to consolidate the spiritual identity and independence of the monastery, allowing it to flourish under the guidance of the greater Cistercian community. Guarinus's reputation as a wise and dedicated spiritual leader extended beyond the walls of the monastery. In 1138, he reluctantly accepted the request of Pope Innocent II and became the bishop of Sion, Switzerland. Despite his initial hesitation, Guarinus embraced his new role with utmost zeal and became known for his passionate commitment to spreading and supporting the Catholic faith in his diocese. Additionally, he worked tirelessly to improve the administrative and pastoral aspects of his bishopric, striving to ensure the welfare and spiritual growth of the faithful under his care. Saint Guarinus passed away on August 27, 1150, in the Aulps monastery in Savoy, modern-day France, where he had spent the majority of his life serving God and His Church. He died of natural causes, leaving behind a rich legacy of holiness, devotion, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Cistercian Order. In the wake of the French Revolution, when Christianity faced severe persecution, the relics of Saint Guarinus were hidden in 1794 to protect them from desecration. Eventually, they were enshrined in the church of the parish of Saint John of the Aulps in 1804. However, in 1886, the relics were relocated to the church of Plan d’Avau in Saint-Jean-d’Aulps, Switzerland. Some fragments of his relics were also enshrined in Jeuxey, Vosges, France, in 1873. Saint Guarinus is venerated as a patron against the plague, reflecting his intercessory role for the afflicted. Additionally, he is considered a protector of cattle, a tribute to his unwavering care and concern for all God's creation. The feast day of Saint Guarinus of Sion is celebrated on various dates, including August 27, 14 February (by the Foglianti d’Italia since 1701), August 30 (in the diocese of Sion, Switzerland; among Trappists; and among Cistercians), September 1 (in Geneva, Switzerland, and Annecy, France since 1777), and January 6 on some calendars. These dates serve as an opportunity for the faithful to honor and seek the intercession of this devoted servant of God.