Saint Lambert of Maastricht

Biography

Saint Lambert of Maastricht, also known as Lambert of Liege, Lamberto, Lambertus, and Landebertus, was born around 635 in Maastricht, Netherlands, into a noble family. He received a strong religious education and went on to study under the guidance of Saint Landoaldus and Saint Theodardus. After his studies, Lambert was ordained a priest and eventually became the Bishop of Maastricht in 670. During his tenure as bishop, a political conflict arose, leading to his forced exile from Maastricht from 674 to 681. However, Lambert used this time as an opportunity for missionary work in Toxandria, now modern-day Brabant. He collaborated closely with Saint Willibrord of Echternach, Saint Wito, Saint Plechelm of Guelderland, and Saint Otger of Utrecht during this period. Together with Saint Landrada, Lambert founded the abbey of Munsterbilsen. The abbey became a center for spiritual growth and the spread of the Christian faith in the region. Lambert's dedication to the sanctity of marriage especially caught the attention of powerful individuals of his time, who found it politically inconvenient. Tragically, Saint Lambert was martyred for his unwavering defense of the sanctity of marriage. While celebrating Mass at the chapel of Saint Cosmas and Saint Damian in Liège, Belgium, he was stabbed through the heart by a javelin around the year 700. His burial took place in his family's vault in the cemetery of Saint Peter in Maastricht, Netherlands. In 720, Saint Lambert's remains were exhumed and translated to Liège by Saint Hubert of Liege. This translation contributed to the growth of his cult and veneration in the region. Although his canonization occurred before the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, Saint Lambert is recognized as a pre-congregation saint. Saint Lambert of Maastricht is remembered and honored on September 17th, his feast day. He is also considered the patron saint of several regions, including Liège, the diocese of Liège, Émines, Montegnée, and Middelaar in the Netherlands. His life and martyrdom serve as an inspiration for believers, emphasizing the importance of defending holy matrimony and remaining steadfast in the face of political challenges.