Saint Leutfridus of Lacroix

Biography

Saint Leutfridus of Lacroix, also known as Leofred, Leufredo, Leufroi, Leufroy, Leutfred, Leutfrid, Leutfrido, and Lieffroy, was born in the late 7th century near Évreux, France. He came from a noble family and was the brother of another saint, Saint Agofredus. Leutfridus received his early education at the renowned schools of Condat and Chartres in France. He exhibited an exceptional intellect and a strong desire for spiritual growth from a young age. After completing his education, he felt a calling to devote his life to God and became a teacher of young boys in his hometown of Évreux, France. During this time, he became a spiritual student of Saint Sidonius of Saint-Saens, a highly respected figure in the Christian community. Feeling a deeper longing for a solitary and contemplative life, Leutfridus decided to become a Benedictine hermit. He first went to live in seclusion at Cailly and later at Rouen in France, where he dedicated himself to a life of prayer, meditation, and ascetic practices. Driven by his fervent devotion to God and a desire to contribute to the growth of the Christian faith, Leutfridus ultimately founded a new abbey in approximately 690. Originally named La Croix-Saint-Ouen, the abbey was later renamed Saint-Leufroy in his honor. As the founder, Leutfridus assumed the role of the abbey's first abbot, leading the community in both spiritual and administrative matters. Saint Leutfridus is particularly known for a miraculous incident that occurred at his monastery. According to legend, a fire broke out, threatening to consume the entire abbey. In fervent prayer, Leutfridus beseeched God's intervention, and miraculously the fire subsided, sparing the monastery and its inhabitants. This extraordinary event became a testament to his deep faith and his connection to the divine. Leutfridus lived a devout and exemplary life, known for his humility, piety, and dedication to the monastic traditions. He inspired numerous individuals with his teachings, guidance, and personal holiness. Even after his death on 21 June 738, his tomb became a place of pilgrimage where many reported experiencing miracles and seeking his intercession. In 851, Leutfridus' relics were enshrined in the church of La Croix-Saint-Ouen monastery, ensuring his continued presence and veneration. Additionally, his relics were later transferred to the church of Saint-Leufroy in Thiverny, Oise, France, further solidifying his connection to the local community. Although Saint Leutfridus does not have a specific patronage assigned to him, he remains an inspiration to all who seek to deepen their faith and live a life of devoted service to God. His feast days are celebrated on 21 June and the Sunday after 21 June in Thiverny, Oise, France. Saint Leutfridus of Lacroix, through his exemplary life and miraculous deeds, continues to be remembered and revered as a saint and a spiritual guide in the Catholic tradition. His legacy serves as an inspiration for all to follow the path of devotion, selflessness, and unwavering faith in God.