Desiderius of Langres

Saint Desiderius, hieromartyr, was the third bishop of Langres in France in the fourth century and received the crown of martyrdom at the time of the barbarian invasions. The Church commemorates him on 23 May.

Life

He was born near Genoa in Italy, in a village of the area. He became bishop of Langres in Gaul. Saint Athanasius of Alexandria names him among those at the Council of Sardica in 343, and his name also appears at the council of Cologne in 346.

Martyrdom

During the barbarian invasions, between 355 and 357, Desiderius was killed by the Vandals in the year 355. The Roman Martyrology says that, seeing his people oppressed by the Vandals, he went to their king to plead with him, but at the king's command was at once put to the sword, offering himself calmly for the good of the flock entrusted to him. Tradition adds that his body raised its head and returned to the city of Langres.

Veneration

He is honoured as patron of teachers and peasants. He is also patron of Assago, Castelnuovo Scrivia, Brignano-⁠Frascata and Langres. In the Middle Ages he was often confused with Saint Desiderius of Vienne. He is commemorated on 23 May.