St. Severinus of Noricum – Abbot and Missionary in Austria

ST. SERVERINUS ABBOT

St. Severinus of Noricum was a Roman Christian missionary and abbot who brought faith, charity, and peace to the people of Austria during the turbulent collapse of the Roman Empire.

St. Severinus of Noricum was born around the year 410, possibly in southern Italy or North Africa, though the precise location is uncertain. As a young man, he dedicated himself to a life of asceticism and deep prayer. Feeling called by God, he eventually journeyed to the Roman province of Noricum, an area that roughly corresponds to modern-day Austria, during a time of political upheaval and social collapse following the decline of the Western Roman Empire.

Upon arriving in Noricum, Severinus found the people suffering not only from the barbarian invasions but also from spiritual neglect. Taking up the life of a missionary, he worked tirelessly to spread the Christian faith, organize the community, and offer aid to the poor and distressed. His influence became so significant that even the barbarian rulers respected him. He negotiated the release of captives, provided food during famines, and established monasteries that became centers of both spiritual life and material relief.

Severinus led by example, living a life of extreme poverty, prayer, and fasting. His prophetic gifts and miracles earned him the admiration of Christians and pagans alike. He was also instrumental in helping organize the evacuation of Roman citizens from Noricum when the region became untenable, guiding them to safer areas in Italy.

He died on January 8, 482, in Favianae (present-day Mautern, Austria). His remains were later moved to Naples, Italy, where he continued to be venerated. His life was documented by his disciple Eugippius, who wrote The Life of St. Severinus, a valuable historical record of the late Roman world in central Europe.

St. Severinus’s legacy is one of charity, leadership, and unwavering faith during one of the darkest periods of European history. He is honored as a patron of Austria and is remembered for his role in preserving Christian life and civilization during the fall of the Roman Empire.

Feast Day

8-1-

Birth Date

--410

Died Date

8-1-482

Canonised Date

--N/A

Naples, Italy

St. Severinus, protector of the poor and bringer of peace in troubled times, pray for us. Help us to serve others selflessly and to trust in God’s providence through every trial. Amen.
ST. SERVERINUS ABBOT

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ST. SERVERINUS ABBOT

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