St. Albinus of Angers (c. 470–550) was a French bishop known for his deep piety and commitment to justice. He became a monk and later the Bishop of Angers, where he defended the poor, fought against corruption, and advocated for the release of unjustly imprisoned individuals. His miracles and holiness earned him great veneration.
St. Albinus of Angers was born around 470 in Brittany, France, into a noble family. From an early age, he demonstrated remarkable piety and a deep desire to dedicate himself to God. He entered a monastery, where he became known for his ascetic lifestyle and devotion to prayer. His virtues led to his election as abbot, a position in which he guided his community with wisdom and humility.
In 529, Albinus was chosen as the Bishop of Angers, a role he accepted with reluctance out of humility. As bishop, he became a fearless advocate for the poor and the oppressed. He was particularly known for his efforts to free prisoners who had been unjustly detained, even confronting powerful figures to demand justice. His dedication to upholding Christian values made him widely respected but also earned him opposition from corrupt officials.
St. Albinus was deeply committed to moral reform within society. He spoke out against immorality, corruption, and injustices that plagued the people. His influence extended beyond Angers, as he participated in the Council of Orleans in 538, where he supported reforms to strengthen the Church’s role in protecting the vulnerable.
Many miracles were attributed to St. Albinus, both during his life and after his death. One of the most famous accounts describes how his prayers caused the walls of a prison to crumble, allowing innocent prisoners to escape. His reputation for holiness continued to spread, and pilgrims traveled to his tomb, seeking his intercession for healing and protection.
St. Albinus passed away on March 1, 550. His tomb in Angers became a site of veneration, and his feast day is still celebrated on March 1. His legacy remains one of unwavering faith, compassion for the oppressed, and a fearless commitment to justice.