St. Eligius, Patron of Metalworkers and Craftsmen


Today is the memorial of St. Eligius. Eligius (also known as Eloi) was born to Roman-Gallo parents, Eucherius and Terrigia, around 590 near Limoges in France. His father was a metalsmith and Eligius, learning this craft from him, became extremely skillful in the trade. Eventually he was appointed master of the mint under King Clotaire II of Paris. Eligius developed a close friendship with the King and his reputation as an outstanding metalsmith became widespread.

In 629, Eligius was appointed Dagobert’s first counselor. Later, on a mission for Dagobert, he persuaded the Breton King Judicael to accept the authority of Dagobert.

Eligius was ordained as a priest in 640 and later was appointed Bishop of Noyon, France and Tournai, Belgium in 641. Known for his piety, hard work and honesty, Eligius was generous to the poor, ransomed slaves (including Saint Tillo of Solignac), built churches, a monastery at Solignac, France, and a major convent in Paris.

Eligius died on December 1, around 660, at Noyon. 


Patronage
St. Eligius has become the traditional patron of all smiths, metal workers, and craftsmen. His patronage of horses and the people who work with them stems first from his patronage of smiths and craftmen, but also from his having left a horse to a priest at his death. The new bishop liked the horse, and took it from the priest. The horse became sick, but recovered immediately when it was returned to the priest that Eligius had chosen.  There is also a legend of Eligius removing a horse’s leg in order to easy shoe it, then putting the leg back in place. In some places horses are blessed on his feast day.


Lesson
The use of one's talents and wealth for the welfare of humanity is a very true reflection of the image of God. In the case of St. Eligius, he was so well liked that he attracted many to Christ. His example should encourage us to be generous in spirit and kind and happy in demeanor.

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