Palladius of Embrun

Holy Hierarch Palladius of Embrun, also called Pelade, was bishop of Embrun in Gaul at the beginning of the 6th century. He was born into a family of high rank in Embrun and was a disciple of Bishop Catulinus, whom he followed into exile at Vienne in his conflict with the Arians and King Sigismund. In 518, at the death of Catulinus, Palladius succeeded him in the see. He is said to have read Scripture extensively in exile, to have been ordained a priest and to have received the gift of prophecy: he is said to have foretold the fall and death of Sigismund.

His hagiography shows him as a man who "gave an example of all the virtues", had the privilege of conversing with angels, and had the gift of prophecy. To him is owed the building of many churches, at Embrun, La Roche-⁠de-⁠Rame, Chorges, Le Sauze and even Marseille, as well as sanctuaries dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, to Saints Vincent, Orontius and Victor, and to Genesius of Arles. One source says he possessed an exceptional power to obtain from God whatever he asked. He reposed on 6 January 523, according to some sources around 541.

He was venerated in his lifetime and afterward had a widespread cult. His relics were stolen by a Spanish Benedictine monk. He is commemorated on 21 June, and in the diocese of Gap and Embrun on 7 January, by the Western calendar (new style). He is honored as a saint of the undivided Church.