Saint Vitalis of Savigny

Biography

Saint Vitalis of Savigny, also known as Vitalis of Paradis, was born in Tierceville, France, in an affluent family. Despite being raised in wealth and privilege, Vitalis felt called to dedicate his life solely to God's service. He made the courageous decision to abandon his wealth and position in the landed gentry and embarked on a profound spiritual journey. Vitalis sought solitude as a hermit, desiring to deepen his relationship with God through prayer and contemplation. After spending some time in seclusion, he felt compelled to join a monastic community to further devote himself to a life of devotion and communal worship. Thus, he entered the Benedictine Order and became a monk. His passion and commitment to his faith were readily recognized by his fellow religious brothers, and Vitalis quickly rose through the ranks. Eventually, he was appointed abbot of the Benedictine monastery in Savigny, located in Normandy, France. Under his guidance, the monastery flourished, and its reputation for holiness and learning grew. A significant aspect of Saint Vitalis' life was his friendship with Saint Robert of Arbrisselle, the founder of the Order of Fontevrault. The two saints shared a deep spiritual bond and collaborated on various endeavors, including evangelization efforts in the region surrounding Savigny. Their combined efforts brought numerous people to Christ and helped establish a strong foundation of faith in the area. Saint Vitalis of Savigny was renowned for his piety, humility, and his unwavering commitment to the Gospel. He devoted himself to the spiritual and educational formation of the 140 Brother Monks under his care. Through his exemplary leadership and dedication, the community of Savigny became a beacon of faith, attracting pilgrims and seekers from far and wide. On September 16, and sometimes on January 7 or 8, we commemorate the feast day of Saint Vitalis of Savigny. These occasions are an invitation for the faithful to reflect upon his holy life and emulate his devotion to God. Tragically, Saint Vitalis' life was cut short when he died suddenly of natural causes in 1119. As the accounts tell us, he was about to bestow a blessing upon a chorister when he passed away. His remains were revered, and his relics were enshrined in various French cities, including Le Mans, Avranches, and Rennes. Even though Saint Vitalis may not have been officially recognized as a patron saint, his life and witness continue to inspire countless individuals seeking to deepen their relationship with God. His selfless sacrifice, his mastery of contemplative prayer, and his tireless efforts in evangelization serve as an inspiration for all seeking to live a holy and purposeful life. May Saint Vitalis' intercession and example continue to guide and inspire us on our journey of faith.