Saint Ortario of Landelles

Biography

Saint Ortario of Landelles, also known as Saint Ortarius, was a devout monk and the abbot of Landelles Abbey in Bayeux, France. Born in the 7th century, he dedicated his life to serving God and helping the poor and sick in his community. Little is known about Saint Ortario's early life, but he is believed to have come from a noble family in the region. Drawn by a deep sense of spiritual calling, he entered the monastery at a young age and eventually rose to the position of abbot at Landelles Abbey. One of the defining characteristics of Saint Ortario's life was his exceptional austerity. He led a humble existence, possessing few personal belongings and often living in great poverty. He took the vow of poverty seriously, considering material wealth an obstacle to his spiritual growth and ability to serve his community. Saint Ortario was known for his dedication to caring for the poor and sick. He recognized their suffering and understood the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need. Despite the limited resources of the abbey, he often provided food, shelter, and medical assistance to those who sought his aid. The saint's reputation for healing miracles grew throughout the region, as many claimed to have been cured of various illnesses and maladies after seeking his intercession. However, Saint Ortario never sought personal glory or attention for these miracles but attributed them solely to the power of God. In addition to his compassionate work with the poor and sick, Saint Ortario was also deeply committed to the spiritual formation of his fellow monks. He was known for fostering a disciplined and prayerful community, teaching them the importance of devotion, humility, and simplicity in their service to God. Saint Ortario's feast day is celebrated on April 15th. Although he was not formally canonized by the Catholic Church, his sanctity and reputation as a holy man were recognized even during his lifetime. Today, Saint Ortario's legacy lives on through his spiritual teachings and the example he set as a selfless servant of God. He continues to inspire individuals to live lives of charity, humility, and devotion, leaving a lasting impact on the Catholic faithful and those who seek to follow in his footsteps.