St. Venantius Fortunatus
Italian-Frankish bishop and poet (c. 530-c. 609), of Treviso, settled at Poitiers under the patronage of St. Radegund and her abbess St. Agnes; Bishop of Poitiers from c. 600. Author of the great Latin hymns "Pange lingua gloriosi proelium" and "Vexilla regis prodeunt," composed for the reception at Poitiers of a relic of the True Cross. Pre-Congregation.
Life & Times
Born: c. 530 · Died: c. 609 · From: Italy / Poitiers, France.
Patronage
St. Venantius Fortunatus is invoked as the patron of poets, hymn writers, bishops. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“The royal banners forward go; the cross shines forth in mystic glow.”— Vexilla Regis — his Passiontide hymn, opening lines.
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Venantius Fortunatus, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.