Saint Metrone of Verona

Biography

Saint Metrone of Verona, also known as Metro, Metron, and Metronius, was an 8th-century penitent who is remembered for his extreme act of piety and his subsequent integration into the Church. Born in Verona, Italy, little is known about his early life and family background. In his adulthood, while in the midst of a spiritual crisis, Metrone decided to make a profound penitential gesture to atone for his sins. Sometime in the 8th century, he chained himself to a heavy stone in front of the cathedral of Verona. With a determined heart, he threw the key to his chains into the nearby Adige River. This act symbolized his commitment to living in penance and detachment from worldly comforts. For the next seven years, Saint Metrone lived a life of extreme austerity and poverty on the streets of Verona. Enduring the elements, he relied on the generosity of others for his basic needs. During this time, his reputation grew, and many regarded him as a holy man, deeply admired for his self-imposed penitential lifestyle. It was during one of these years of penance that two fishermen happened upon a remarkable discovery. While fishing in the Adige River, they unexpectedly caught a fish with a curious object lodged in its belly. This object turned out to be the key that Saint Metrone had thrown into the river years before. Recognizing its significance, the fishermen promptly brought the key to the local bishop, who understood it as a divine sign. Prompted by this miraculous occurrence, the bishop immediately sought out Saint Metrone and freed him from his chains. He had observed Metrone's extraordinary commitment to penance and took this opportunity to welcome him to active Communion in the Church. The bishop became convinced that Metrone's prolonged penance had brought him closer to God and granted him a holiness that deserved recognition. After his release, Saint Metrone lived the remaining years of his life fully integrated into the Church community. Although there are no specific details about his deeds or contributions after his release, his sanctity and devotion were evident to those around him. On his passing, numerous miracles were reported at his grave, affirming his place among the blessed. To honor his memory and preserve his relics, they were enshrined in Verona, Italy. Today, Saint Metrone of Verona is venerated as a holy man who, through his extreme penitence and dedication to God, found redemption and favor in the eyes of the Church. Although no specific representation or patronage is associated with him, his life serves as an inspiration of radical devotion and a testament to the transformative power of penance and piety. Saint Metrone's feast day is celebrated on May 8th, commemorating the day of his release from his self-imposed chains and the beginning of his renewed spiritual journey. While he lived and was canonized before the establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, his sanctity and veneration continue to touch the hearts of those who discover his remarkable story.