Saint Sigiranus

Biography

Saint Sigiranus, also known as Cirano, Cyran, Sigiramnus, Sigiranno, Sigirannus, Sigram, and Siran, was born to the nobility of Berry, France. He was the son of the Count of Bourges, a man who later became the bishop of Tours, France. Sigiranus grew up in a privileged environment, surrounded by luxury and abundance. During his youth, Sigiranus served as a cup-bearer in the royal court of Clothaire II. However, despite his comfortable position, Sigiranus felt a deep calling to the religious life. He strongly believed that he was meant to dedicate himself fully to God. When an arranged marriage was proposed to him, Sigiranus refused, choosing instead to pursue a life of holiness and service. In 625, Sigiranus entered holy orders in the city of Tours, where he became an archdeacon. The death of his father marked a crucial turning point in his life. Sigiranus decided to renounce his family's wealth and give it all away to the poor. This act of selflessness, however, was greeted with suspicion by some, who believed he had lost his sanity. Unable to comprehend Sigiranus' generosity, people in his community deemed him insane and locked him up. However, in 640, after enduring years of confinement, Sigiranus was finally released. He embarked on a pilgrimage to Rome, Italy, using the journey to engage in humble manual labor alongside serfs as he traveled. During his time in Rome, Sigiranus continued to follow his vocation, striving for a life of devotion and spiritual growth. In recognition of his unwavering commitment, Clothaire II granted him land, which Sigiranus used to establish two monastic communities. The first was Saint-Pierre de Longoret, and the second was Méobecq Abbey, later known as Saint-Cyran-du-Jambot. These monasteries became centers of prayer, study, and artistic production, inspiring the surrounding communities. In 655, Sigiranus ascended from being a monk to becoming the abbot of Longoret. In this role, he provided spiritual guidance and leadership to his fellow monks, fostering an atmosphere of devotion and discipline. Sigiranus' teachings and example attracted many who sought to deepen their relationship with God. His life emphasized the importance of selflessness, humility, and renunciation of worldly attachments. Saint Sigiranus passed away around 655 from natural causes, leaving a legacy of holiness and self-sacrifice. His relics were initially preserved at the abbey of Saint-Cyran until 1860. At that time, Empress Eugénie de Montijo had them placed in a reliquary, which she presented to the church of Saint-Michel-en-Brenne. Though Saint Sigiranus does not have an officially assigned representation or designated patronages, his life serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to live a life of simplicity, generosity, and dedication to God. His memory continues to shine as a guiding light for those seeking a path of holiness and service.