Saint Bénézet – Humble Shepherd and Builder of the Bridge of Avignon

ST. BENEZET

Saint Bénézet was a young shepherd in France who, inspired by divine calling, led the construction of the famous Bridge of Avignon. He is honored for his obedience, charity, and devotion to God.

Saint Bénézet was born around 1163 in the Ardèche region of France. He was a humble shepherd boy, spending his days in solitude and prayer while tending sheep. At about the age of 15, during a solar eclipse, he heard a divine voice commanding him to go to Avignon and build a bridge over the Rhône River for pilgrims and travelers.

Though uneducated and unknown, Bénézet obeyed the call. Upon arriving in Avignon, he approached the city authorities and announced his mission. At first, they mocked him. To test him, they challenged him to lift and place an enormous stone as a foundation. Miraculously, he did so with ease, and many witnessed the act with awe. This event convinced people of his divine calling.

With support from the community, Bénézet founded the Bridge-Building Brotherhood, gathering funds and manpower for the construction. Despite his youth and lack of training, he oversaw the project with faith and determination. The resulting structure, later known as the Pont Saint-Bénézet, became one of medieval Europe’s most famous bridges, serving both spiritual and practical purposes.

Bénézet was known for his deep faith, humility, and love for the poor. While supervising the work, he also cared for the needy, lived simply, and gave spiritual guidance to those who came to him. He died young, around the age of 21, on April 14, 1184, before the bridge was fully completed.

He was buried in a small chapel built on the bridge itself, and his tomb became a site of pilgrimage. His story spread throughout France, and he was venerated as a confessor, miracle worker, and friend of the poor. His feast is celebrated on April 14.

Feast Day

14-4-1184

Birth Date

0-0-1163

Died Date

14-4-1184

Canonised Date

0-0-Pre-Congregation

Chapel on the Bridge of Avignon, France

O humble Saint Bénézet, Servant of God and builder of bridges, Help us unite hearts through faith and charity. Strengthen us to follow God’s call with trust and love. Amen.
ST. BENEZET

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