Saint of the day, May 5
St. Hilary of Arles was the son of noble parents and received a classical education in rhetoric and philosophy. He gave his life to worldly pursuits, uninterested in religion or in the salvation of his soul.
May 5 - St. Hilary of Arles
Born: 400
Died: May 5, 449
Nationality: French
Vocation: priest, religious
Attributes: Bishop’s robes
Patronage: the City of Arles and protection against snake bites
Canonization: pre-congregation
St. Hilary of Arles was the son of noble parents and received a classical education in rhetoric and philosophy. He gave his life to worldly pursuits, uninterested in religion or in the salvation of his soul.
One of his relatives, Honoratus, now a saint, was concerned. Honoratus was the founder of a monastery and had given his life to serve the Church and live in virtue. He begged Hilary to change his ways and live a life devoted to Christ.
“On one side,” Hilary wrote, “I saw the Lord calling me; on the other, the world offering me its seducing charms and pleasures. How often did I embrace and reject, will and not will the same thing!”
Ultimately, he made the right choice and submitted himself to Honoratus’ instruction. He became a religious, giving all his belongings to the poor. In 426, Honoratus became the archbishop of Arles. Hilary followed him briefly but returned to the monastery. Honoratus called him back though, wanting Hilary close to him.
When Honoratus died, Hilary again tried to return to the monastery and his life of prayer. The citizens of the town went out and brought him back, insisting that Hilary become the next archbishop of Arles.
Hilary served well as archbishop – retaining the poverty, dedication, and simplicity with which he lived the monastic life. He established monasteries and strengthened the orthodoxy of the local Church. He sold Church property to pay the ransoms for several captives and is said to have worked miracles in his lifetime. Hilary died on May 5, 449, and despite some canonical disputes, at the time of his death, the pope praised him.
St. Hilary of Arles, pray for us.
