Saint Matthew of Beauvais

Biography

Saint Matthew of Beauvais, also known as Matteo di Beauvais, was a valiant soldier and knight who lived during the time of the First Crusade. He was born in Beauvais, France, and little is known about his early life and upbringing. Matthew's name first appears in historical records when he joined the ranks of Christian warriors who set out on the First Crusade in 1096. This military campaign aimed to recapture Jerusalem from the Saracens, who had controlled the holy city for centuries. As a devoted soldier of Christ, Matthew eagerly took up his armor and joined the cause. During the arduous journey to the Holy Land, Matthew demonstrated great courage and skill in battle. His comrades admired him for his unwavering faith and dedication to the Christian cause. However, tragedy struck when Matthew and a group of fellow knights were captured by the Saracens. Imprisoned and subjected to harsh conditions, Matthew was brought before the Saracen authorities, who demanded that he renounce his Christian faith. They promised him freedom and wealth if he would only submit to their demands. But Matthew, firm in his conviction, flatly refused to waver in his devotion to Christ. Despite the grim circumstances, Matthew remained steadfast in his faith, refusing to renounce Christianity under any circumstances. Inspired by his bravery and unwavering commitment, his fellow captives also found strength to remain faithful in the face of adversity. The Saracens, infuriated by Matthew's defiance, decided to make an example of him. In a cruel and tragic turn of events, he was ordered to be beheaded for his unyielding loyalty to his Christian beliefs. Matthew bravely faced his execution, trusting in the promises of eternal life and redemption through Christ. News of Matthew's martyrdom quickly spread, and his fellow crusaders and Christians back in Beauvais mourned his loss. Recognizing his remarkable faith and sacrifice, the local community of Beauvais began venerating Matthew as a saint, even though he was never formally canonized by the Catholic Church. Although he never achieved widespread recognition as a saint, Saint Matthew of Beauvais was revered by those in and around Beauvais, France, as a model of unwavering faith and martyrdom. His feast day is celebrated on March 27th each year, as a reminder of his steadfastness, courage, and devotion to Christ. Despite his lack of formal patronages, Matthew's story serves as an inspiration for all Christians facing adversity and challenges to their faith.