Saint Richarius of Celles

Biography

Saint Richarius of Celles, also known as Ricario or Riquier, was born a pagan in Centula, France. As a young man, he encountered Saints Caidoc and Fricor, Irish missionaries who were in danger from local non-Christians. Recognizing the danger they were in, Richarius protected and hid the missionaries, and during this time, he himself underwent a profound spiritual conversion. Inspired by the teachings and witness of Caidoc and Fricor, Richarius decided to dedicate his life to the service of God. He was ordained a priest and spent his days traveling throughout the country on a humble donkey, preaching the Gospel to all who would listen. His sincere and passionate sermons attracted many to the Christian faith, and he became known for his zealous commitment to spreading the message of Christ. Richarius spent several years working in England, furthering his missionary efforts and strengthening the Christian community there. However, his heart remained tied to his homeland, and he eventually returned to France with a strong desire to establish a monastic community that would serve as a spiritual haven for the faithful. In fulfillment of this vision, Richarius founded the Abbey at Centula, also known as Saint-Riquier, and became its first abbot. The monastery quickly became renowned for its piety, discipline, and dedication to the spiritual life. Richarius, as the abbey's leader, ensured that the monks lived according to the rule of Saint Benedict and encouraged them in their pursuit of holiness. Richarius's reputation as a holy and wise man spread, and even the King, Dagobert, sought his advice. When the King visited Centula, Richarius did not hold back in expressing his opinions or admonishing the King when necessary. Impressed by his frankness and sincerity, King Dagobert thanked Richarius by giving him a large reward. However, much to the surprise of the court, Richarius selflessly distributed the entire reward to the poor and needy, exemplifying his commitment to serving others. One of Richarius's notable contributions was his involvement in the ransom of captives. Moved by the plight of those held in bondage and slavery, he worked tirelessly to secure their freedom, being one of the first to engage in such efforts. Additionally, Richarius lived a life of simplicity and detachment, eventually resigning from all offices to live out his final years as a prayerful hermit. Saint Richarius of Celles died on 26 April 645 in Foret-Moutier, France, of natural causes. Initially, he was buried in a hollowed-out tree as his disciple, Sigobart, could not afford a traditional burial. However, Richarius's sanctity soon became widely recognized, and his disciples eventually transferred his relics to a more fitting resting place within the abbey he had founded. Though Saint Richarius of Celles may not have a designated patronage, his exemplary life of devotion to God, selflessness, and missionary zeal continues to inspire believers today. His feast days are celebrated on 26 April and 9 October, which marks the translation of his relics. While not officially canonized by the Pre-Congregation process, his sanctity was recognized and venerated from the early days of the Church until now.