St. Benno of Meissen

St. Benno of Meissen was a German bishop known for his holiness, defense of the Church's authority, and missionary zeal; he is the patron saint of Munich.

St. Benno of Meissen was born around the year 1010 in what is now Germany, likely of noble Saxon heritage. Raised in a time of political and religious transformation in the Holy Roman Empire, Benno entered monastic life and later became a canon and then bishop. In 1066, he was appointed Bishop of Meissen by Emperor Henry IV.

As bishop, Benno was noted for his pastoral care, deep piety, and missionary zeal. He labored to evangelize the Slavic peoples in the eastern territories of the empire and was committed to reforming the clergy and ensuring orthodoxy among the faithful. He lived a life marked by simplicity and devotion, maintaining a strong emphasis on preaching and the sacraments.

Benno became embroiled in the Investiture Controversy — the major conflict between the papacy and secular rulers over the appointment of bishops. When Emperor Henry IV was excommunicated by Pope Gregory VII, Benno sided with the pope, leading to his deposition by the emperor and temporary loss of his episcopal authority. Despite these difficulties, he remained faithful to the Church and was later reinstated.

Legend tells of Benno throwing the keys to the Meissen cathedral into the Elbe River when he was deposed, and that they were miraculously recovered from the stomach of a fish — a story that symbolizes his unwavering trust in God’s providence.

St. Benno died on June 16, 1106. He was buried in the Meissen Cathedral, though his relics were later transferred to Munich in 1576 by Duke Albert V of Bavaria to reinforce Catholic identity during the Reformation. In 1523, Pope Adrian VI canonized Benno, making him one of the last saints canonized before the Council of Trent. He remains the patron saint of the city of Munich and is especially venerated in Bavaria.

Feast Day

16-6-

Birth Date

--1010

Died Date

16-6-1106

Canonised Date

31-3-1523

Cathedral of Munich, Bavaria, Germany

St. Benno, faithful shepherd of the Church, guide us to stand firm in truth and obedience to God’s will. Pray for bishops and leaders to be courageous and holy. Amen.
ST. BENNO OF MEISSEN

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ST. BENNO OF MEISSEN

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