St. Ivo Kermartin: Patron Saint of Lawyers and Advocate for Justice

ST. IVO KERMARTIN

St. Ivo of Kermartin, also known as St. Ivo, was a 13th-century priest and lawyer from Brittany, France, celebrated for his deep commitment to justice and compassion for the poor. Known as the patron saint of lawyers, St. Ivo is remembered for his fair legal work, charity, and devotion to the service of others.

St. Ivo of Kermartin was born in 1253 in the small town of Kermartin, in Brittany, France. From a young age, Ivo showed a deep commitment to both religious life and the welfare of others. He was educated at the University of Paris, where he studied law, and became a lawyer and a priest. Ivo's legal career, however, was not like that of most other lawyers of his time. His approach to law was rooted in his faith, and he became known for his exceptional honesty, fairness, and compassion.

Ivo worked as a legal advisor to the poor, offering legal counsel and assistance free of charge to those who could not afford representation. His legal decisions were always made with a focus on justice and compassion, and he is said to have defended the rights of the most vulnerable in society, including orphans, widows, and the oppressed. His impartiality and dedication to justice earned him great respect both as a lawyer and as a priest.

In addition to his legal work, St. Ivo was also known for his charitable acts. He personally gave much of his wealth to the poor and often visited those in need, providing them with not only material support but also spiritual guidance. His deep devotion to God and his selfless service to others became central to his life’s work. His charity extended beyond the courtroom and into every aspect of his ministry.

St. Ivo's reputation as a just and charitable man spread throughout Brittany, and people from far and wide sought his counsel. His humility and the purity of his intentions made him a beloved figure. He worked tirelessly, often spending long hours in prayer and reflection, while also serving his community through his work as a lawyer and priest.

St. Ivo died on May 19, 1303, at the age of 50. His death was deeply mourned by the people of Brittany, who had come to know him as a man of extraordinary integrity and kindness. After his death, his tomb became a site of pilgrimage, and many miracles were reported at his grave.

Ivo was canonized by Pope Clement VI in 1347, just over 40 years after his death. He was declared the patron saint of lawyers, and his feast day is celebrated on May 19. St. Ivo is venerated not only for his work in the legal field but also for his exemplary Christian life, which combined both spiritual and social justice. His legacy as a model of fairness, charity, and compassion continues to inspire both legal professionals and laypeople alike.

Feast Day

19-5-

Birth Date

17-10-

Died Date

19-5-

Canonised Date

18-5-1347

Louannec, France

“Lord, through the intercession of St. Ivo, grant us the grace to act with justice, compassion, and humility in all our dealings with others. May we be inspired by his example of charity and selfless service. Amen.”
ST. IVO KERMARTIN

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ST. IVO KERMARTIN

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