St. Cloud, also known as St. Clodoald, was a 6th-century prince of the Merovingian dynasty who renounced his royal inheritance to live as a monk. After escaping assassination as a child, he devoted his life to God, eventually becoming a priest and hermit, known for his holiness and miracles.
St. Cloud was born in 522 into the Merovingian royal family as the grandson of Clovis I, the first King of the Franks to convert to Christianity. He was the son of King Chlodomer, who died in battle in 524, leaving his three young sons as heirs to the throne. However, his uncles, Childebert I and Clotaire I, sought to consolidate power and ordered the murder of Cloud’s brothers. Cloud, the youngest, managed to escape, finding refuge with the bishop of Paris, St. Aventin.
Growing up under the bishop’s protection, Cloud developed a deep devotion to the Christian faith. As he matured, he renounced his claim to the throne, cutting his hair—a symbol of royal status—and dedicating himself entirely to God. He withdrew from public life, living as a hermit near Paris, where he spent years in solitude, prayer, and penance.
His reputation for holiness grew, attracting many followers who sought his spiritual guidance. Eventually, he was ordained a priest and founded a monastic community in what is now the town of Saint-Cloud, near Paris. He led a simple life, emphasizing humility, prayer, and service to the poor.
St. Cloud was known for his miracles, acts of charity, and profound wisdom. Despite being of royal lineage, he chose a life of complete detachment from worldly power, focusing solely on his relationship with God and the care of those in need. He remained a revered figure until his death in 560.
His legacy continued through the town named after him, Saint-Cloud, which became a site of pilgrimage. His example of renouncing earthly power for spiritual devotion has made him a model of humility and piety in the Catholic tradition.