Austremonius
France- Saint Austremoine, the "Apostle of Auvergne"
- A Contemporary of Aquitanian Bishops
- Cult and Canonization
- Rediscovery and Restoration
- Later Veneration
Saint Austremoine, the "Apostle of Auvergne"
Early Life and MinistryAustremoine, the first bishop of Clermont, is known as the "Apostle of Auvergne." According to Gregory of Tours, he was one of seven bishops sent from Rome to Gaul in the mid-3rd century. Austremoine settled in Auvergne and is believed to have established the diocese of Clermont.
A Contemporary of Aquitanian Bishops
Austremoine was likely a contemporary of the three bishops from Aquitaine who attended the Council of Arles in 314 AD. Unlike some of his peers, he did not suffer martyrdom.
Cult and Canonization
Austremoine's cult emerged in the mid-6th century when Deacon Cantius experienced a vision of angels revealing the location of his unmarked tomb in Issoire. His remains were later transferred to Volvic and then to Mauzac Abbey in 761 AD.
Rediscovery and Restoration
By the mid-9th century, the saint's head had been brought to Saint-Yvoine, near Issoire. However, around 900 AD, his relics were returned to Issoire, his original burial site.
Later Veneration
Austremoine's legacy continued to be celebrated throughout the Middle Ages. In art, he is often depicted blessing infants, symbolizing his role as a protector and intercessor.
