St. Anthelm
St. Anthelm
When he lived:
St. Anthelm, a beacon of virtue and wisdom, graced the world with their presence during the 12th century. Born in the year 1107, this extraordinary individual dwelled in a time fraught with tumultuous change and groundbreaking discoveries.
Where he lived:
St. Anthelm carved his spiritual path in the scenic region of southeastern France. Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring splendor of the French Alps, the mountains bore witness to his awe-inspiring journey towards sanctity. In particular, the serene landscapes of Belley and the surrounding areas became the backdrop for his transformative experiences.
Notable world events during the time of his life:
- The Second Crusade (1147-1149): As St. Anthelm trod the earthly plane, the world echoed with the call to arms as European powers rallied for the Second Crusade. This military expedition, sanctioned by Pope Eugene III, aimed to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim forces. The fervor and chaos surrounding the Crusades would undoubtedly have impacted St. Anthelm’s spiritual outlook and the cultural atmosphere of the time.
- The Renaissance of the 12th Century: Amidst the uncertainties of the era, a spark of intellectual revival illuminated the world. This lesser-known Renaissance fostered a revival of learning and cultural expression, transcending geographical boundaries. Scholars, philosophers, and artists rekindled the flames of ancient wisdom, reshaping the landscape of knowledge. St. Anthelm, with his keen intellect and spiritual inclinations, would have undoubtedly marveled at this blossoming era of enlightenment.
- The Founding of the University of Paris (1150): In the heart of France, the University of Paris emerged as a beacon of scholarship and intellectual discourse. Students from far and wide flocked to this illustrious institution, seeking knowledge and enlightenment. The birth of this esteemed center of learning had a profound impact on society, fostering a spirit of intellectual curiosity and cultural exchange.
- The Birth of Gothic Architecture: Like the unfolding petals of a majestic flower, the Gothic architectural style began to grace the skylines of Europe during St. Anthelm’s lifetime. The construction of magnificent cathedrals such as Chartres and Notre-Dame in Paris heralded a new era in architectural design. St. Anthelm, a witness to this grandeur, must have marveled at the awe-inspiring heights reached by human craftsmanship.
His patronage:
St. Anthelm’s patronage extends to a myriad of causes and aspirations. They are revered as the patron saint of:
- Mountaineers and Pilgrims: As a resident of the French Alps, St. Anthelm’s connection to the mountains inspired a special patronage for mountaineers and pilgrims. Those who venture forth on treacherous paths or embark on spiritual journeys invoke St. Anthelm’s protection and guidance.
- Prisoners and Captives: St. Anthelm’s compassion and empathy extended to those who found themselves imprisoned or held captive. They became a symbol of hope and liberation for individuals yearning for freedom and deliverance.
- The Lost and Those in Need of Guidance: St. Anthelm’s unwavering commitment to spiritual enlightenment led to their patronage of lost souls and those seeking guidance in life’s turbulent journey. They offer solace and support to those grappling with the trials and tribulations of existence.
St. Anthelm’s life was intricately intertwined with the transformative events of the 12th century. Their indomitable spirit and unwavering faith navigated the tumultuous seas of change, leaving an indelible mark on the world around them. From the rugged peaks of the French Alps to the corridors of knowledge in Paris, St. Anthelm’s story resonates with those seeking inspiration, enlightenment, and the courage to face life’s challenges head-on.
The Calling
Early in life, he received an ecclesiastical benefice in the area of Belley, and he was involved in church politics. He only focused on improving his power; however, after a visit to the Carthusian, he changed his view towards the vocation. He then went on to resign when he was 30 years old to become a Carthusian monk at Portes.
His Works as a Monk
Two years after joining the order, he was made the prior of the Grande Chartreuse, which was the motherhouse of his order. This motherhouse had incurred considerable damage.
St. Anthelm carried out his administrative duties effectively, and the community increased in fervor and number. He was responsible for restoring and improving the buildings. He even constructed a defensive wall and an aqueduct.
He standardized the rules of the order and changed the rules to allow women to enter the order in their own charter houses. He was a prior of the Carthusian Grand Chartreuse and bishop of Belley. He also brought the other houses of the order closer to the motherhouse, and the monks who were under him expressed great fondness for him, including Hugh of Lincoln.
St. Anthelm served continuously in his office for more than 24 years before leaving to become a hermit. In 1152, when he returned to the Grand Chartreuse, he advocated for the sitting Pope Alexander III against the antipope Victor IV. Pope Alexander III then appointed Anthelm as bishop of Belley.
As the bishop, St. Anthelm was fearless and did not make any compromises as he worked towards reforming the clergy and regulating the affairs of the diocese. At one point, he excommunicated Count Humbert of Maurienne for holding a priest in captivity and for murdering another one; however, the excommunication was reversed after Humbert appealed to the Pope. This resulted in St. Anthelm withdrawing from his diocese in protest.
His last days
St. Anthlem’s health was no longer in a good state as he failed to travel to England to try and reconcile Henry II of England and Thomas Becket after he had been commissioned to do so by the pope. He, however, returned to Belley and took care of the poor and lepers of the area.
Legacy
5 Interesting Facts About St. Anthelm
- St. Anthelm was a hermit for a few years.
- When he was on his deathbed, St. Anthelm received Humbert and
recognized that he had truly repented. - St. Anthelm is also known as Anthelm de Chignin, Anthelme, or
Anthelmus - St. Anthelm sought to increase his power and authority rather than
ability to serve when he initially heeded the call to ecclesiastical
duty. - St. Anthelm had the enmity of Emperor Fredrick Barbarossa due to
his support for Pope Alexander.
Prayer to St. Anthelm
Dear God, please help me to learn both humility and meekness.
