Saint Servatus of Tongres

Biography

Saint Servatus of Tongres, also known as Servaas, Servatius, Servais, and Servazio, was a bishop of Tongres in modern-day Belgium for 37 years. Born in Armenia, he became renowned for his deep piety and devotion to the Catholic faith. Throughout his life, he performed numerous miraculous acts, demonstrating his close connection to the divine. One of Saint Servatus' notable achievements was his role in welcoming Saint Athanasius of Alexandria during his exile by the Arians. Despite Athanasius' persecution by the Arian heretics, Servatus provided him with refuge and support, ensuring that the true teachings of the Catholic Church were upheld. In 346, Saint Servatus worked tirelessly to confront and remove a heretical bishop in Cologne, Germany. With unwavering determination, he defended the orthodoxy of the Catholic faith and safeguarded the faithful from false teachings. During the Council of Rimini in 359, Servatus actively participated in the discussions and debates surrounding important theological matters. His wisdom and insight contributed significantly to the decisions made at the council, which aimed to establish and maintain the purity of Catholic doctrine. Saint Servatus was also known for his prophetic abilities. He foresaw the invasion of Gaul by the Huns in the mid-5th century, warning the people of the impending danger. His prophecies served as a call to conversion and preparation for the trials that lay ahead. In representations and icons, Saint Servatus is often depicted as a bishop holding a key, symbolizing his spiritual authority and role as the guardian of the Church. He is sometimes accompanied by an angel, representing his close connection to the heavenly realms. Another representation shows him holding a key while placing his crozier on a dragon, symbolizing his victory over evil and his ability to protect the faithful from harm. A bishop reading at a desk while nearby sits a shield with three wooden shoes is also a common representation of Saint Servatus. This image refers to a miracle he performed when he struck the ground with his staff, causing a spring of water to flow. A local craftsman, in gratitude, carved three wooden shoes to offer as a gift to the saint. One of the unique aspects of Saint Servatus' story is the account of his tomb. It is said that miracles occurred at his burial site, including the phenomenon that snow would not accumulate on it, regardless of the depth of the snowfall around it. These wonders served as a testimony to his holiness and the intercessory power of his relics. When Tongres was sacked, Saint Servatus' relics were ultimately translated to the Saint Servaas Basilica in Maastricht, in the present-day province of Limburg, Netherlands. The basilica became a revered pilgrimage site, drawing countless faithful seeking Saint Servatus' intercession for healing and other intentions. Saint Servatus of Tongres was canonized as a saint by the pre-congregation process, which predates the formal canonization process still used today. He is considered the patron saint against foot problems, lameness, leg problems, mice, rats, rheumatism, and for success. Additionally, the town of Diepenbeek in Belgium also claims him as its patron. Saint Servatus' remarkable life, marked by his unwavering dedication to the Catholic Church and his miraculous deeds, continues to inspire believers today. His example serves as a reminder of the power of faith and prayer, and his intercession is sought by those in need of physical and spiritual healing.