Avitianus of Rouen

Avitianus was the third bishop of Rouen in Normandy and died in the year 325. He is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church, and the Russian Church commemorates him on 2 December. He is also called Avitien, Avidien or Avitus.

His two predecessors are regarded as legendary. He is the first historically attested bishop, by his presence, together with Maternus II of Cologne, at the first Council of Gaul, held at Arles in 314. He succeeded Mellonius and settled at Rouen from 314.

The Deeds of the Archbishops of Rouen say of him that he was a pastor pure in spirit, blameless in his conduct and careful for the salvation of the souls entrusted to him.

He was buried in the crypt of the church of Saint-⁠Gervais in Rouen, where his relics are found. His commemoration is on 2 December.