The divers
employed
could find notraceofthebody.
O'Hanlon - Lives of the Irish Saints - v7
2, pp.
2, 3.
Also Vita S.
25 See Bishop Challenor's " Britannia Rumoldi, authore Domynsio, cap.
xiv.
,
Sancta," part ii. , July 1st, p. 2.
26 The River Demer is now the name of
that rivulet, near which Mechlin is located, anditfallsintotheDyle. Seethe"Gazet- teer of the World," vol. ii. , p. 862.
27 The river alluded to runs from east to west, in its general direction. It is a branch
"of the Scaldis or Scheld.
pp. 25, 26.
39 See Bishop Challenor's "Britannia
Sancta," part ii. , p. 2.
3° See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn-
" Since thou desirest no rewards, but
out by the angel. The Pontiff said
such as are eternal, I will not detain thee longer. But go, and proceed where the Lord Jesus hath called, through his angel ; there, being perfect in every virtue, give encouragement to the weak, by thy holy doctrine and piety. Bring back to religion, likewise, through thy fervent prayers, those who
admonished to
:
sio, cap. xv. , p. 26.
3' Before the Roman
Conquest, Lombardy
had been occupied by a powerful colony of the Gauls. About the middle of the fifth
i 4 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July i. was told, that a certain person there was possessed by a demon, from whom
he could not be exorcised. Our said to the Bishop
"
May
our Lord Jesus Christ, who expelled a mute devil, through his benign mercy
and great power, restore thee to health. " He then commanded the impure
spirit to leave that man. Immediately, the demon departed; while the
wretched victim seemed more like a dead than a living person, on account
of those tortures he had previously suffered. This man's friends asked our
saint to restore him to bodily health, as he had thus been delivered from his
mental infirmity. Then, St. Rumold raised the man from earth, with his
"
Depart, restored creature, nor defile yourself any longer with crime. But, take care, that you recollect this hereafter, and that you com- mend me, also a sinner, to Divine protection. " The man was thus restored to health ; so that many, by this miracle, were powerfully drawn to Christ. 32 Setting out from this place, Rumold entered Germany. He passed on towards the Scheld, until he came to Brabant, 33 where he stopped at the pre- sent site of Mechlin, that place designed by the angel for his future habita- tion. This district was then a waste uncultivated desert, abounding in thorns, thickets, trees, and wild beasts. In this region, Rumold found a great number of people, dancing to the sound of harps, pipes, and other musical instru- ments; and this occurred, about the time when the Church celebrated our Lord's Passion. Seeing this, he interrupted their amusements, and began to
preach truths of the Christian religion. He announced to the rude people what sufferings our Lord Jesus Christ endured, for our salvation. This he accomplished, with such effect and holy energy, that the people were wonder- fully animated with Divine love, and to some extent, they were imbued with intelligent ideas regarding the Most Holy Trinity. When he had concluded hissermon,oursaintretiredtoaquietpartofthewood. There,hedevoted himself to exercises of Heavenly contemplation. 34
Atthistime,CountAdo35 WasgovernoroverthecountryaroundMech- lin* He is said to have been a kinsman to King Pepin of France. 36 He had married an illustrious and a virtuous lady, named Elysa,37 with whom3s he lived for sixty-six years, without their having had offspring. However, the probable meaning is, that Ado was sixty-six years of age, at the time of St. Rumold's arrival at Mechlin. 35 The pious couple, having heard concerning
it was overrun Attila. Later century, by
still, Alboin, King of the Lombards, sub- jected it to his sway ; hence the name it now bears. Kiny lVpin of France invaded Lorn- hardy in 754, and subdued its ruler Aistol- phus. He undertook another expedition, A- u- 755» when he compelled Aistulphus to restore the possessions, and to respect the rights of the Church of Rome. See Rev. John Alzog's "Manual of Universal Church History," translated by Rev. F. J. Pabisch and Rev. Thomas S. Byrne, vol. ii. , Second
, Epoch i. , part i. , chap. 2, sect. 165, p. 105.
. e Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn- sio, cap. xvi. , pp. 26, 27.
31 See Rev. Alban Butler's " Lives of the
hand, saying :
Fathers, Martyrs and other principal Saints, vol. vii. , July 1.
'
34 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Theo- dorico, cap. 3, p. 3. Also, VitaS. Rumoldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xvii. , p. 27.
3S He is " styled Pipini
Fiancorum
person possessed :
Regis Ofiicia Propria Sanctorum I Iibernise," Die prima J ulii. In Festo S. Rumoldi, Noct. ii. , Lect. v. ,
p. 66.
36 For an account of the Acts of this
heroic monarch, the reader is referred to le
P. G. Daniel's " Histoire de France,"
tome i. , Seconde Race, pp. 507 to 551.
37 Also called Adeliza, the dau-hter of Lambert, a chief of llasbania. See John P>aptist Soller's "Acta S. Rumoldi Fpiscopi et Martyris Apostoli et Patroni Mceh-
cognato," in De Burro's
"
liniensium," p. 92, n. (e), Antverpiie, 1718, fol.
38 According to the Life of St. Rumold.
39 Such is the commentator's opinion, in case it should not be supposed that the noble Count had attained his hundredth year, at the time of our saint's death. See Annota-
tiones, &c, n. 13, p. 85.
40 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Theo-
'
July i. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 15
the commencement of our saint's missionary labours in their province, sent
him word, that they desired the honour of a visit from him to their palace.
Having accepted this invitation, the . prelate was most honourably received on his approach, and treated with the greatest hospitality. In return for this kindness, Rumold refreshed the minds of his guests with Gospel precepts. Among other duties, he exhorted them to bestow alms on poor persons, as beingaworkmostacceptabletoGod. TheCountorderedanapartmentto be fitted up in his palace, for the special accommodation of our saint. In this chamber, also, Rumold would have an opportunity of offering up prayers
40
to Heaven, for their salvation.
One day, while our saint was in their palace, the Count and his lady com-
plained, that they had long lived in the holy state of matrimony, without having children to inherit their principality, after death. Wherefore, they entreated Rumold to offer rdevout prayers, for them. Raising his eyes towards Heaven, he thus prayed :
dorico, cap. 3, p. 3. Also, Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xviii. , p. 28.
41
44 "
— Suscipiendumvelutlustricoparente. "
xiii.
42 See i. Kings, i:
4S See De " Officia Burgo's
Sanc-
Judges,
« See Luke, ii.
Propria torum Hiberniae," Die prima Julii. In Festo S. Rumoldi, No. ct. ii. , Lect. v. , p. 66.
" I give thee thanks, O Father, Almighty
for all the favours conferred upon me, and especially, because thou hast never heard thy servant, without lending a gracious ear. And now, most merciful
Father and bounteous Lord, confiding in thy great clemency, I suppliantly beseech thee, that thou reject not my humble prayers. I entreat thee, that thou hear me, as thou hast heard Abraham, who had a son, named Isaac, born to him of his wife Sara, who was old and sterile. Thou, likewise hast heard the. prayer of Manue,41 when his wife, who was a long time barren, gave birth to Sampson, a most robust man, she having received comfort from an Angel. Also, thou hast deigned to hear the prayer of thy servant Anna, a long time childless and who brought forth the prophet Samuel to Helcan 43
;
and thou hast given John the Baptist, to his unfruitful mother, Elizabeth. 4^
Thou hast wished, also, O Lord Jesus, to be born of thy most pure Virgin Mother, in a miraculous manner. Wherefore, I entreat thee, on behalf of
these thy servants, to exert thy omnipotence for thy honour and glory, that those may obtain legitimate offspring, through thy immense clemency. Deign,, also, in the name of the Most Holy Trinity, to send them offspring. " Having thus prayed, and gifted with the spirit of prophecy, our saint declared, that the Count's lady should shortly conceive, and bring forth a son, remarkable for his beauty, talents and virtue. Rumold declared, likewise, that this child- should afterwards, be . baptized by himself, be adopted as a god-child/*4 and be named Libertus. So much faith was given to these promises, by the religious Count Ado and his wife, that they trusted a child should be born to
them, although contrary to all natural appearances. 4^
their expectations, the Countess conceived, and in due course, she gave birth to a son. This circumstance caused great joy to her husband, and to all his
people. The pious couple presented their newly-born babe to the Most High, acceptingtheirsonasagiftfromHeaven. BeingbaptizedbyRumold,this' infant was called Libertus. Finding all things predicted by Rumold now accomplished, the Count turned to him and said : "Most holy Bishop, thy
wonderful power and inimitable virtue have been fully manifested, in thy son Libertus ; and, I acknowledge myself indebted to thee, for many reasons. .
Wherefore, choose a place for thyself, where thou mayest dwell permanently ; and, be it my privilege, to reverence thee as a father, and as a most faithtul
.
In accordance with
Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xix. , p. 29.
«
16 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July i.
friend. " Accordingly, Rumold complied with the Count's wishes ; while the boy Libertus grew up, the darling of his parents and of their people. This child appeared to progress in virtue, each day. He was known frequently to dis- tribute bread among the poor. He always offered up a prayer for the salva- tion of those whom he met. He well applied every lesson of piety given to him,andheavoidedwhatevermightdispleaseGod. Hewassomuchloved by his parents, that they hardly suffered him to be out of their sight, for a moment, even when engaged in those sports peculiar to youth/6
Notwithstanding this great care bestowed upon him, whilst one day play- ing with his young companions beside some water, and pursuing small birds with childish delight, Libertus approached too near the edge of a bank, when he was precipitated into the river and drowned. *? This account was
immediately conveyed to his father, who, in an agony of grief, wrung his hands.
" O Father have I done, that thou shouldest afflict me with this grief?
With
elevated to Heaven, Ado cried out
:
what
When that day,
eyes
Almighty,
on which in thy goodness thou hast made me joyful by giving me a son,
occurs to my mind ; I am agonized with sudden grief, because death has snatchedhimfromawretchedfather. Alas! whatconsolationcanbeafforded, for the loss of my own and my wife's dear child, so suddenly taken away from us? You, that ardently loved me, why have you called me fortunate ? rather should you call me wretched ; for now 1 am afflicted with a grief, far greater than the joy I first received. Let my older friends mourn with me, and let
myyoungeromittheirsports,forsakeofmydepartedchild. Ithasprofited me little, to have had Libertus as a son ; since misfortune shall prey upon me, and I must pine away with grief, for the rest of my life. My joy and comforthaveatoncevanished,asadream. O,mydearson,myflower,my support, the most beautiful of children, hereafter, I shall no more embrace thee as my child, nor shalt thou inherit thy father's wealth and possessions. If thou hadst been taken away by any kind of natural death, this at least might afford some solace to thy parents. " While he indulged in this paroxysm of grief, running towards him, the Countess enquired the cause for his lamenta- tions ; and, on being told, she fell senseless to the ground, when her atten- dants bore her way. All the people living within their province deeply sympathised, in the affliction of these bereaved parents. Young and old hastened to the river, to find the noble youth's body. In boats, and by swimming or by diving, some persons endeavoured to find the object of their search. Standing on the bank, some held consultation as to how their object might best be effected. Some drew nets along the bed of the river ; others used hooks and drags, for a like purpose.
The divers employed could find notraceofthebody. Afteralltheireffortshadbeenunavailing,itoccurred to them, that Rumold, by whose prayers that youth had obtained the first breath of life, should be sent for, that through him also, the boy might be
brought again into the land of the living. Messengers were despatched for God's servant, then absent from Mechlin/8
About this time, a holy man named Gummar 4 9 was born, and he was edu- cated in the village of Embleem, in the province of Renensis. s° He was one of
46 Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Theodorico, cftP- 3» P- 3- Als0 Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xix. , xx. , pp. 28 to 30.
« See Les Petits Bollandistes, "Vies del
c
31, 32.
4y This saint—also called Gundemar—had
his festival at the nth of October.
s« Other writers—such as Molanus, Gram- may and Miiceus—have the name Riensis,
Saints," tome vii. , i
48
Jour de Juillet, p. 582.
See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Theo- and it is stated to have been that
of dorico, cap. 3, p. 4. Also Vita S. Ru- Brabant, in which Antwerp, Lira and other
moldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xxi. , pp. towns were included.
part
July i. ]
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
King Pepin's military companions, and he often contended against heathens, who made inroads upon the French and Belgium territories. This man em- braced a religious course of life, from his youth, and he had formed a friend- ship with our saint. Both these illustrious servants of God had a place appointed, where they met at stated times, to discourse on religious subjects. That wasknownas"theOak,"*1 and
probably
that a tree of this kind grew at the spot. We are informed, that this place
place
circumstance, —
—
respective places of residence ; and, each year they met at this spot, many of the people and clergy being also present. It is said, that both these saints were accustomed to fasten their staves in the ground, near the oak. Their staffs produced leaves, in the presence of people there assembled. The memory of such a miracle, as also that place becoming a favourite rendez- vous for the saints, afterwards occasioned an annual festival to be held; while great numbers of the people and clergy assembled there, to engage in religious exercises. "
After an interval of three days, Rumold was informed about the melancholy occurrenceofthedeathofhisalumnus,Libertus. Then,comingtotheplace where he had been drowned, the holy Bishop shed tears, in common with others who were around him. While those tears flowed, Rumold raised his eyes towards Heaven, and prayed the Almighty with earnestness, that Liber- tusmightberestoredtohisparentsandtolife. Asheprayed,agreatcrowd of persons stood around, awaiting the event. Before the Bishop had con- cluded his prayer, Libertus appeared standing before him, and as if after awaking from sleep, for his hair, face and garments seemed dry and unsoiled. The boy's parents, their friends, and all the people rejoiced greatly, when they saw this much-loved youth restored to life. 54 In the exuberance of his joy and gratitude, Count Ado offered the saint a great quantity of gold and
these " O gifts, saying:
2
anciently called Stanteyck* was an intermediary station, between their
as a reward. But the man of God
illustrious Count, I am not able to obtain these favours, through my own power,butrelyingonDivineassistance. Forwhichreason,youshouldrefer what you have obtained, to the all powerful God ; through the aid of whom alone,thesethingsweredonebyme,hisservant. Ihavelongsincerejected temporal things, which thou hast offered me, as being earthly and evanesent. They might become to me an occasion of sin. But, near this place lies an uncultivated marshy spot, abounding in trees; a spot producing alders, thorns, yews and brambles. In the name of God, I ask this tract of land to be given by thee for no other purpose, than that it may be permitted me there to cele- brate the Divine praises, with God's ministers. " The Count was much pleasedwiththissuggestion; and,themoreso,astheplaceselectedwasnot far from his own residence. At once, he gave his sanction to the saint's pro- ject. Rumold obtained a remote part of the wood, which was frequented much by wolves and by other wild animals. There he built a cell for him- self," and which he used as a place of residence. *6 It was surrounded by a trench, filled with water. Rumold laboured at this work of construction, with
silver,
rejected
s 1 The Codex Tungrensis calls this place Stadeley ; while Haraeus in his Vita S. Gummari writes it Stadeki.
sa This name was afterwards corrupted into Seaedeneyck. See Grammay's work, "De Antverpia," lib. ivM cap. 8.
"
S4 See John Baptist Soller's Acta S.
Rumoldi, Episcopi et Martyris Apostoli et Patroni Mechliniensium," cap. v. , sect. 32, 33, p. 93.
ss At a later period, a college of Regular Canons occupied its site. See Les Petits
S3 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn- Bollandistes, "Vies des Saints," tome vii. ,
e
sio, cap. xxii. , pp. 32, 33. i Jour de Juillet p. 582,
fromthe
B
1 8 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAIISTS. [July i
his own hands. He selected some companions, who were renowned for sanctity, to celebrate with him the Divine mysteries, in this place. By a
solemn testament, the Count confirmed his donation, and gave special privi- leges, for the future protection of this foundation. There, Rumold built a
church in honour of the proto-martyr, St. Stephen -p and frequently interrupt- ing his exterior functions to renew his spirit before God, he lived many years,
in that place, together with his protege, Libertus. s
8
However, these state-
Life,
60 as we are informed this writer. by
CHAPTER III.
crown of — martyrdom.
1
It so
about the of beginning
the ninth 2 century
that the Huns or who were fierce barbarians and Danes,
Fathers, Martyrs and other vol. vii. , July i.
principal Saints,"
Chapter III.
auctore Theodorico, cap. 3, p. 5. His
martyrdom, however, happened long after that of St. Rumold.
a In the Annales the invasion Eginhardi,
of the Low Countries by the Normans we find chronicled in the years 810 and 811
3 The festival of this Belgian saint is held on the 23rd of November.
* See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn-
questioned
this to be the
editor
our saint's cell, but of the desert in which it
supposes
not of
n.
See Vita S.
86. Rumoldi,
s* See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn- sio, cap. xxiii. , pp. 33 to 35.
59 See "Acta S. Rumoldi Episcopi et Martyris Apostoli et Patroni Mechlinien-
place,
20, p.
by Father John Baptist Soller,5? who critically
ments have been
examines the circumstances, as found in history. That chapel, which the saint is said to have built, existed in the time of Domyns, the author of his
HIS DISCIPLE LIBERTAS OBTAINS THE CROWN OF MARTYRDOM—LABOURS OF ST.
RUMOLD—HIS MARTYRDOM—
MEMORATIONS OF HIS FESTIVALS—CONCLUSION.
Under the guidance and precepts of St. Rumold, his young disciple Libertas grew up in the practice of every virtue ; while moved by his master's example and instruction, he learned to shun all dangerous occasions of sin, and to detest every semblance of vice. In true humility, Libertas laboured to becomeperfect; and,hewasdestineda—tlasttoattainheaven,throughthe
MIRACLliS AFTER HIS DEATH— MECHLIN—VENERATION IN THIS CITY—HONOURS PAID TO ST. RUMOLD—COM-
happened probably
gentiles, made an irruption into that part of the country where he dwelt, and they devastated the cities, towns, churches and religious houses, with fire and sword, not only in the Low Countries, but even so far as Cologne. The holy man Libertas went into Hasbania to visit his relatives, and also, as it seems, to avoid the fury of those pagans. However, their ravages extended, like- wise,tothatplace,andthepeoplewereobligedtofleefortheirlives. There, too, the sacred edifices fell before their ravages. Libertas entered a church dedicated to St. Trudo,3 where he was surprised by the barbarians. He then fled towards the high altar, which he embraced, but he was massacred by the impious intruders. Having demolished several Christian houses and shrines,
56 In the Vita S. Rumoldi of Theoderic, sium,'" Commentarius Proevius, sect, xii. ,
cap. 3, p. 5, is added: " Nomen loco num. 130 to 141, pp. 301033.
Ulmus ab ulmorum illic luxuriantium co-
In a comment on this the piam. " passage,
was built. See Annotationes, &c, note 12, pp. (recte) 63, 64, 65.
57 See Rev. Alban Butler's " Lives of the
6o The commentator, however, adds :
"sed — anno postmodum 1580
turn. " — Annotationes, &c,
a Gensiis dim-
CATHEDRAL OF
July i. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 19
the Huns carried off their preys ; and, then, after causing sad scenes of deso- lation, they returned to the places whence they had come. 4
OursaintwasmindfuloftheApostolicwords "Hewholaboursnot,let
him not eat," and also
:
:
" We labour with our hands, that we be not a burthen
to anyone. "5 Exercising himself frequently in manual labour, he still con-
tinued his pious prayers. Thus, it was his practice, to sow seeds and plant
treesofvariouskinds; and,i—t wasremarked,thatwhateverhesowedor
planted produced abundantly a heavenly blessing being bestowed on his
labours. He had planted a certain bush, which grew much fruit of an excellent
kind ; and, he often delighted to sit under the shade of that tree, while sing-
ing hymns and reciting the Psalter of David. 6 Hence, our saint was looked
upon, as the tutelar or patron of earth's fruits and of mechanic arts. It was
customary for the country people, in after time, to invoke his patronage, with
these " God and St. Rumold assist our labours. " About
expressions : May
this time, he led an eremitical life. 7 Many were accustomed, in course of
8
time, to pay tithes of their corn and fruit to this saint.
Our saint engaged at the building of a chapel, in an elegant style. He
was in the habit each evening of inspecting this work, as it progressed, that
thus he might punctually pay his labourers the amount of wages they merited.
He was mindful these words of Sacred " Thou shalt not regarding Scripture :
delaythewagesofthyworkmenuntilthemorning. " Heoftentookoccasionto admonish them about the necessity for leading better lives. Among other
vices, he frequently inveighed against the crime of adultery. It appears, that one of the workmen addicted to this crime was inflamed with hatred towards
the holy prelate, on account of his frequent reproofs. This man opened his designs to another companion, whom he imposed upon with representations, that Rumold must have a great sum of money concealed, as he was not deterred from executing any work on account of its cost. A proof of this
assertion was sought to be furnished, likewise, from that regularity with which
10 This workman told his
moreover, that they should endeavour to better their condition, and in an easier way, than by daily labour, which was not so remunerative. He recommended, for this purpose, that they ought to murder Rumold in a private manner, and thus escape that punishmentdue to their crime. They arranged, also, to plunge hisbodyintheriverafterdeath. Thetemptedman'savaricebeingthusexcited, he consented to become participator in that proposed crime of the adulterer. Wherefore, arming themselves with axes and mattocks, they endeavoured to find a suitable opportuninty, for putting their wicked project into execution. " Such occasion was afforded to them one evening, when, according to his usual custom, the holy Bishop was about to inspect the progress of that work on
his labourers were each paid
evening.
companion,
sio, cap. xxiv. , pp. 35, 36.
s ii. Thess. iii. , 8, 10.
6 A rather different version of this cir-
cumstance is given, in the Vita S. Rumoldi,
8 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn-
sio, cap. xxv. , p. 36. 9 Leviticus xix. , 13.
I0 "
Ecclesiasti- cal History of Ireland," vol. iii. , chap, xix. ,
sect. xv. , n. 172, p. 201.
" See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore J~>omvn-
sio, cap. xxvi. , pp. 36,37-.
Rumoldi, authore Theodonco, cap. 4, p. 5.
by Theodoric, as follows
negotio nutriverat sylvulam, sub quarum plerumque recubans tegmine meditabatur harmonium Davidicee melodise. Ad nostra
usque tempora
una harum
arborum,
perdurat
dulci digna religione, et grata plantatoris sui recordatione excresit ad materiam lau-
dis. "—Cap. 8, p. 8.
i This is stated, by an ancient writer, as
his mission. "—Dr. Lanigan's
we learn from Mirwus' gundici," p. 360.
"
Fasti Belgiciet Bur-
Also Vlta S' >
:
" Fagineam hoc
their motive was to get the money, which they thought the saint possessed of, and adds that they had been attendants of his. Probably, they supposed that he must have had some money about him towards forwarding the object of
'
Theodoric states, that
26 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July i
which they were engaged, and in order to pay his labourers at the close of day. The cruel murderers selected a lonely place, where they attacked the holyman. Oneofthewretches,withastroke,inflictedadeadlywoundon the prelate's head. He fell on the spot, and almost instantly breathed his last.
Sancta," part ii. , July 1st, p. 2.
26 The River Demer is now the name of
that rivulet, near which Mechlin is located, anditfallsintotheDyle. Seethe"Gazet- teer of the World," vol. ii. , p. 862.
27 The river alluded to runs from east to west, in its general direction. It is a branch
"of the Scaldis or Scheld.
pp. 25, 26.
39 See Bishop Challenor's "Britannia
Sancta," part ii. , p. 2.
3° See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn-
" Since thou desirest no rewards, but
out by the angel. The Pontiff said
such as are eternal, I will not detain thee longer. But go, and proceed where the Lord Jesus hath called, through his angel ; there, being perfect in every virtue, give encouragement to the weak, by thy holy doctrine and piety. Bring back to religion, likewise, through thy fervent prayers, those who
admonished to
:
sio, cap. xv. , p. 26.
3' Before the Roman
Conquest, Lombardy
had been occupied by a powerful colony of the Gauls. About the middle of the fifth
i 4 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. [July i. was told, that a certain person there was possessed by a demon, from whom
he could not be exorcised. Our said to the Bishop
"
May
our Lord Jesus Christ, who expelled a mute devil, through his benign mercy
and great power, restore thee to health. " He then commanded the impure
spirit to leave that man. Immediately, the demon departed; while the
wretched victim seemed more like a dead than a living person, on account
of those tortures he had previously suffered. This man's friends asked our
saint to restore him to bodily health, as he had thus been delivered from his
mental infirmity. Then, St. Rumold raised the man from earth, with his
"
Depart, restored creature, nor defile yourself any longer with crime. But, take care, that you recollect this hereafter, and that you com- mend me, also a sinner, to Divine protection. " The man was thus restored to health ; so that many, by this miracle, were powerfully drawn to Christ. 32 Setting out from this place, Rumold entered Germany. He passed on towards the Scheld, until he came to Brabant, 33 where he stopped at the pre- sent site of Mechlin, that place designed by the angel for his future habita- tion. This district was then a waste uncultivated desert, abounding in thorns, thickets, trees, and wild beasts. In this region, Rumold found a great number of people, dancing to the sound of harps, pipes, and other musical instru- ments; and this occurred, about the time when the Church celebrated our Lord's Passion. Seeing this, he interrupted their amusements, and began to
preach truths of the Christian religion. He announced to the rude people what sufferings our Lord Jesus Christ endured, for our salvation. This he accomplished, with such effect and holy energy, that the people were wonder- fully animated with Divine love, and to some extent, they were imbued with intelligent ideas regarding the Most Holy Trinity. When he had concluded hissermon,oursaintretiredtoaquietpartofthewood. There,hedevoted himself to exercises of Heavenly contemplation. 34
Atthistime,CountAdo35 WasgovernoroverthecountryaroundMech- lin* He is said to have been a kinsman to King Pepin of France. 36 He had married an illustrious and a virtuous lady, named Elysa,37 with whom3s he lived for sixty-six years, without their having had offspring. However, the probable meaning is, that Ado was sixty-six years of age, at the time of St. Rumold's arrival at Mechlin. 35 The pious couple, having heard concerning
it was overrun Attila. Later century, by
still, Alboin, King of the Lombards, sub- jected it to his sway ; hence the name it now bears. Kiny lVpin of France invaded Lorn- hardy in 754, and subdued its ruler Aistol- phus. He undertook another expedition, A- u- 755» when he compelled Aistulphus to restore the possessions, and to respect the rights of the Church of Rome. See Rev. John Alzog's "Manual of Universal Church History," translated by Rev. F. J. Pabisch and Rev. Thomas S. Byrne, vol. ii. , Second
, Epoch i. , part i. , chap. 2, sect. 165, p. 105.
. e Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn- sio, cap. xvi. , pp. 26, 27.
31 See Rev. Alban Butler's " Lives of the
hand, saying :
Fathers, Martyrs and other principal Saints, vol. vii. , July 1.
'
34 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Theo- dorico, cap. 3, p. 3. Also, VitaS. Rumoldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xvii. , p. 27.
3S He is " styled Pipini
Fiancorum
person possessed :
Regis Ofiicia Propria Sanctorum I Iibernise," Die prima J ulii. In Festo S. Rumoldi, Noct. ii. , Lect. v. ,
p. 66.
36 For an account of the Acts of this
heroic monarch, the reader is referred to le
P. G. Daniel's " Histoire de France,"
tome i. , Seconde Race, pp. 507 to 551.
37 Also called Adeliza, the dau-hter of Lambert, a chief of llasbania. See John P>aptist Soller's "Acta S. Rumoldi Fpiscopi et Martyris Apostoli et Patroni Mceh-
cognato," in De Burro's
"
liniensium," p. 92, n. (e), Antverpiie, 1718, fol.
38 According to the Life of St. Rumold.
39 Such is the commentator's opinion, in case it should not be supposed that the noble Count had attained his hundredth year, at the time of our saint's death. See Annota-
tiones, &c, n. 13, p. 85.
40 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Theo-
'
July i. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 15
the commencement of our saint's missionary labours in their province, sent
him word, that they desired the honour of a visit from him to their palace.
Having accepted this invitation, the . prelate was most honourably received on his approach, and treated with the greatest hospitality. In return for this kindness, Rumold refreshed the minds of his guests with Gospel precepts. Among other duties, he exhorted them to bestow alms on poor persons, as beingaworkmostacceptabletoGod. TheCountorderedanapartmentto be fitted up in his palace, for the special accommodation of our saint. In this chamber, also, Rumold would have an opportunity of offering up prayers
40
to Heaven, for their salvation.
One day, while our saint was in their palace, the Count and his lady com-
plained, that they had long lived in the holy state of matrimony, without having children to inherit their principality, after death. Wherefore, they entreated Rumold to offer rdevout prayers, for them. Raising his eyes towards Heaven, he thus prayed :
dorico, cap. 3, p. 3. Also, Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xviii. , p. 28.
41
44 "
— Suscipiendumvelutlustricoparente. "
xiii.
42 See i. Kings, i:
4S See De " Officia Burgo's
Sanc-
Judges,
« See Luke, ii.
Propria torum Hiberniae," Die prima Julii. In Festo S. Rumoldi, No. ct. ii. , Lect. v. , p. 66.
" I give thee thanks, O Father, Almighty
for all the favours conferred upon me, and especially, because thou hast never heard thy servant, without lending a gracious ear. And now, most merciful
Father and bounteous Lord, confiding in thy great clemency, I suppliantly beseech thee, that thou reject not my humble prayers. I entreat thee, that thou hear me, as thou hast heard Abraham, who had a son, named Isaac, born to him of his wife Sara, who was old and sterile. Thou, likewise hast heard the. prayer of Manue,41 when his wife, who was a long time barren, gave birth to Sampson, a most robust man, she having received comfort from an Angel. Also, thou hast deigned to hear the prayer of thy servant Anna, a long time childless and who brought forth the prophet Samuel to Helcan 43
;
and thou hast given John the Baptist, to his unfruitful mother, Elizabeth. 4^
Thou hast wished, also, O Lord Jesus, to be born of thy most pure Virgin Mother, in a miraculous manner. Wherefore, I entreat thee, on behalf of
these thy servants, to exert thy omnipotence for thy honour and glory, that those may obtain legitimate offspring, through thy immense clemency. Deign,, also, in the name of the Most Holy Trinity, to send them offspring. " Having thus prayed, and gifted with the spirit of prophecy, our saint declared, that the Count's lady should shortly conceive, and bring forth a son, remarkable for his beauty, talents and virtue. Rumold declared, likewise, that this child- should afterwards, be . baptized by himself, be adopted as a god-child/*4 and be named Libertus. So much faith was given to these promises, by the religious Count Ado and his wife, that they trusted a child should be born to
them, although contrary to all natural appearances. 4^
their expectations, the Countess conceived, and in due course, she gave birth to a son. This circumstance caused great joy to her husband, and to all his
people. The pious couple presented their newly-born babe to the Most High, acceptingtheirsonasagiftfromHeaven. BeingbaptizedbyRumold,this' infant was called Libertus. Finding all things predicted by Rumold now accomplished, the Count turned to him and said : "Most holy Bishop, thy
wonderful power and inimitable virtue have been fully manifested, in thy son Libertus ; and, I acknowledge myself indebted to thee, for many reasons. .
Wherefore, choose a place for thyself, where thou mayest dwell permanently ; and, be it my privilege, to reverence thee as a father, and as a most faithtul
.
In accordance with
Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xix. , p. 29.
«
16 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July i.
friend. " Accordingly, Rumold complied with the Count's wishes ; while the boy Libertus grew up, the darling of his parents and of their people. This child appeared to progress in virtue, each day. He was known frequently to dis- tribute bread among the poor. He always offered up a prayer for the salva- tion of those whom he met. He well applied every lesson of piety given to him,andheavoidedwhatevermightdispleaseGod. Hewassomuchloved by his parents, that they hardly suffered him to be out of their sight, for a moment, even when engaged in those sports peculiar to youth/6
Notwithstanding this great care bestowed upon him, whilst one day play- ing with his young companions beside some water, and pursuing small birds with childish delight, Libertus approached too near the edge of a bank, when he was precipitated into the river and drowned. *? This account was
immediately conveyed to his father, who, in an agony of grief, wrung his hands.
" O Father have I done, that thou shouldest afflict me with this grief?
With
elevated to Heaven, Ado cried out
:
what
When that day,
eyes
Almighty,
on which in thy goodness thou hast made me joyful by giving me a son,
occurs to my mind ; I am agonized with sudden grief, because death has snatchedhimfromawretchedfather. Alas! whatconsolationcanbeafforded, for the loss of my own and my wife's dear child, so suddenly taken away from us? You, that ardently loved me, why have you called me fortunate ? rather should you call me wretched ; for now 1 am afflicted with a grief, far greater than the joy I first received. Let my older friends mourn with me, and let
myyoungeromittheirsports,forsakeofmydepartedchild. Ithasprofited me little, to have had Libertus as a son ; since misfortune shall prey upon me, and I must pine away with grief, for the rest of my life. My joy and comforthaveatoncevanished,asadream. O,mydearson,myflower,my support, the most beautiful of children, hereafter, I shall no more embrace thee as my child, nor shalt thou inherit thy father's wealth and possessions. If thou hadst been taken away by any kind of natural death, this at least might afford some solace to thy parents. " While he indulged in this paroxysm of grief, running towards him, the Countess enquired the cause for his lamenta- tions ; and, on being told, she fell senseless to the ground, when her atten- dants bore her way. All the people living within their province deeply sympathised, in the affliction of these bereaved parents. Young and old hastened to the river, to find the noble youth's body. In boats, and by swimming or by diving, some persons endeavoured to find the object of their search. Standing on the bank, some held consultation as to how their object might best be effected. Some drew nets along the bed of the river ; others used hooks and drags, for a like purpose.
The divers employed could find notraceofthebody. Afteralltheireffortshadbeenunavailing,itoccurred to them, that Rumold, by whose prayers that youth had obtained the first breath of life, should be sent for, that through him also, the boy might be
brought again into the land of the living. Messengers were despatched for God's servant, then absent from Mechlin/8
About this time, a holy man named Gummar 4 9 was born, and he was edu- cated in the village of Embleem, in the province of Renensis. s° He was one of
46 Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Theodorico, cftP- 3» P- 3- Als0 Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xix. , xx. , pp. 28 to 30.
« See Les Petits Bollandistes, "Vies del
c
31, 32.
4y This saint—also called Gundemar—had
his festival at the nth of October.
s« Other writers—such as Molanus, Gram- may and Miiceus—have the name Riensis,
Saints," tome vii. , i
48
Jour de Juillet, p. 582.
See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Theo- and it is stated to have been that
of dorico, cap. 3, p. 4. Also Vita S. Ru- Brabant, in which Antwerp, Lira and other
moldi, authore Domynsio, cap. xxi. , pp. towns were included.
part
July i. ]
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
King Pepin's military companions, and he often contended against heathens, who made inroads upon the French and Belgium territories. This man em- braced a religious course of life, from his youth, and he had formed a friend- ship with our saint. Both these illustrious servants of God had a place appointed, where they met at stated times, to discourse on religious subjects. That wasknownas"theOak,"*1 and
probably
that a tree of this kind grew at the spot. We are informed, that this place
place
circumstance, —
—
respective places of residence ; and, each year they met at this spot, many of the people and clergy being also present. It is said, that both these saints were accustomed to fasten their staves in the ground, near the oak. Their staffs produced leaves, in the presence of people there assembled. The memory of such a miracle, as also that place becoming a favourite rendez- vous for the saints, afterwards occasioned an annual festival to be held; while great numbers of the people and clergy assembled there, to engage in religious exercises. "
After an interval of three days, Rumold was informed about the melancholy occurrenceofthedeathofhisalumnus,Libertus. Then,comingtotheplace where he had been drowned, the holy Bishop shed tears, in common with others who were around him. While those tears flowed, Rumold raised his eyes towards Heaven, and prayed the Almighty with earnestness, that Liber- tusmightberestoredtohisparentsandtolife. Asheprayed,agreatcrowd of persons stood around, awaiting the event. Before the Bishop had con- cluded his prayer, Libertus appeared standing before him, and as if after awaking from sleep, for his hair, face and garments seemed dry and unsoiled. The boy's parents, their friends, and all the people rejoiced greatly, when they saw this much-loved youth restored to life. 54 In the exuberance of his joy and gratitude, Count Ado offered the saint a great quantity of gold and
these " O gifts, saying:
2
anciently called Stanteyck* was an intermediary station, between their
as a reward. But the man of God
illustrious Count, I am not able to obtain these favours, through my own power,butrelyingonDivineassistance. Forwhichreason,youshouldrefer what you have obtained, to the all powerful God ; through the aid of whom alone,thesethingsweredonebyme,hisservant. Ihavelongsincerejected temporal things, which thou hast offered me, as being earthly and evanesent. They might become to me an occasion of sin. But, near this place lies an uncultivated marshy spot, abounding in trees; a spot producing alders, thorns, yews and brambles. In the name of God, I ask this tract of land to be given by thee for no other purpose, than that it may be permitted me there to cele- brate the Divine praises, with God's ministers. " The Count was much pleasedwiththissuggestion; and,themoreso,astheplaceselectedwasnot far from his own residence. At once, he gave his sanction to the saint's pro- ject. Rumold obtained a remote part of the wood, which was frequented much by wolves and by other wild animals. There he built a cell for him- self," and which he used as a place of residence. *6 It was surrounded by a trench, filled with water. Rumold laboured at this work of construction, with
silver,
rejected
s 1 The Codex Tungrensis calls this place Stadeley ; while Haraeus in his Vita S. Gummari writes it Stadeki.
sa This name was afterwards corrupted into Seaedeneyck. See Grammay's work, "De Antverpia," lib. ivM cap. 8.
"
S4 See John Baptist Soller's Acta S.
Rumoldi, Episcopi et Martyris Apostoli et Patroni Mechliniensium," cap. v. , sect. 32, 33, p. 93.
ss At a later period, a college of Regular Canons occupied its site. See Les Petits
S3 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn- Bollandistes, "Vies des Saints," tome vii. ,
e
sio, cap. xxii. , pp. 32, 33. i Jour de Juillet p. 582,
fromthe
B
1 8 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAIISTS. [July i
his own hands. He selected some companions, who were renowned for sanctity, to celebrate with him the Divine mysteries, in this place. By a
solemn testament, the Count confirmed his donation, and gave special privi- leges, for the future protection of this foundation. There, Rumold built a
church in honour of the proto-martyr, St. Stephen -p and frequently interrupt- ing his exterior functions to renew his spirit before God, he lived many years,
in that place, together with his protege, Libertus. s
8
However, these state-
Life,
60 as we are informed this writer. by
CHAPTER III.
crown of — martyrdom.
1
It so
about the of beginning
the ninth 2 century
that the Huns or who were fierce barbarians and Danes,
Fathers, Martyrs and other vol. vii. , July i.
principal Saints,"
Chapter III.
auctore Theodorico, cap. 3, p. 5. His
martyrdom, however, happened long after that of St. Rumold.
a In the Annales the invasion Eginhardi,
of the Low Countries by the Normans we find chronicled in the years 810 and 811
3 The festival of this Belgian saint is held on the 23rd of November.
* See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn-
questioned
this to be the
editor
our saint's cell, but of the desert in which it
supposes
not of
n.
See Vita S.
86. Rumoldi,
s* See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn- sio, cap. xxiii. , pp. 33 to 35.
59 See "Acta S. Rumoldi Episcopi et Martyris Apostoli et Patroni Mechlinien-
place,
20, p.
by Father John Baptist Soller,5? who critically
ments have been
examines the circumstances, as found in history. That chapel, which the saint is said to have built, existed in the time of Domyns, the author of his
HIS DISCIPLE LIBERTAS OBTAINS THE CROWN OF MARTYRDOM—LABOURS OF ST.
RUMOLD—HIS MARTYRDOM—
MEMORATIONS OF HIS FESTIVALS—CONCLUSION.
Under the guidance and precepts of St. Rumold, his young disciple Libertas grew up in the practice of every virtue ; while moved by his master's example and instruction, he learned to shun all dangerous occasions of sin, and to detest every semblance of vice. In true humility, Libertas laboured to becomeperfect; and,hewasdestineda—tlasttoattainheaven,throughthe
MIRACLliS AFTER HIS DEATH— MECHLIN—VENERATION IN THIS CITY—HONOURS PAID TO ST. RUMOLD—COM-
happened probably
gentiles, made an irruption into that part of the country where he dwelt, and they devastated the cities, towns, churches and religious houses, with fire and sword, not only in the Low Countries, but even so far as Cologne. The holy man Libertas went into Hasbania to visit his relatives, and also, as it seems, to avoid the fury of those pagans. However, their ravages extended, like- wise,tothatplace,andthepeoplewereobligedtofleefortheirlives. There, too, the sacred edifices fell before their ravages. Libertas entered a church dedicated to St. Trudo,3 where he was surprised by the barbarians. He then fled towards the high altar, which he embraced, but he was massacred by the impious intruders. Having demolished several Christian houses and shrines,
56 In the Vita S. Rumoldi of Theoderic, sium,'" Commentarius Proevius, sect, xii. ,
cap. 3, p. 5, is added: " Nomen loco num. 130 to 141, pp. 301033.
Ulmus ab ulmorum illic luxuriantium co-
In a comment on this the piam. " passage,
was built. See Annotationes, &c, note 12, pp. (recte) 63, 64, 65.
57 See Rev. Alban Butler's " Lives of the
6o The commentator, however, adds :
"sed — anno postmodum 1580
turn. " — Annotationes, &c,
a Gensiis dim-
CATHEDRAL OF
July i. ] LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. 19
the Huns carried off their preys ; and, then, after causing sad scenes of deso- lation, they returned to the places whence they had come. 4
OursaintwasmindfuloftheApostolicwords "Hewholaboursnot,let
him not eat," and also
:
:
" We labour with our hands, that we be not a burthen
to anyone. "5 Exercising himself frequently in manual labour, he still con-
tinued his pious prayers. Thus, it was his practice, to sow seeds and plant
treesofvariouskinds; and,i—t wasremarked,thatwhateverhesowedor
planted produced abundantly a heavenly blessing being bestowed on his
labours. He had planted a certain bush, which grew much fruit of an excellent
kind ; and, he often delighted to sit under the shade of that tree, while sing-
ing hymns and reciting the Psalter of David. 6 Hence, our saint was looked
upon, as the tutelar or patron of earth's fruits and of mechanic arts. It was
customary for the country people, in after time, to invoke his patronage, with
these " God and St. Rumold assist our labours. " About
expressions : May
this time, he led an eremitical life. 7 Many were accustomed, in course of
8
time, to pay tithes of their corn and fruit to this saint.
Our saint engaged at the building of a chapel, in an elegant style. He
was in the habit each evening of inspecting this work, as it progressed, that
thus he might punctually pay his labourers the amount of wages they merited.
He was mindful these words of Sacred " Thou shalt not regarding Scripture :
delaythewagesofthyworkmenuntilthemorning. " Heoftentookoccasionto admonish them about the necessity for leading better lives. Among other
vices, he frequently inveighed against the crime of adultery. It appears, that one of the workmen addicted to this crime was inflamed with hatred towards
the holy prelate, on account of his frequent reproofs. This man opened his designs to another companion, whom he imposed upon with representations, that Rumold must have a great sum of money concealed, as he was not deterred from executing any work on account of its cost. A proof of this
assertion was sought to be furnished, likewise, from that regularity with which
10 This workman told his
moreover, that they should endeavour to better their condition, and in an easier way, than by daily labour, which was not so remunerative. He recommended, for this purpose, that they ought to murder Rumold in a private manner, and thus escape that punishmentdue to their crime. They arranged, also, to plunge hisbodyintheriverafterdeath. Thetemptedman'savaricebeingthusexcited, he consented to become participator in that proposed crime of the adulterer. Wherefore, arming themselves with axes and mattocks, they endeavoured to find a suitable opportuninty, for putting their wicked project into execution. " Such occasion was afforded to them one evening, when, according to his usual custom, the holy Bishop was about to inspect the progress of that work on
his labourers were each paid
evening.
companion,
sio, cap. xxiv. , pp. 35, 36.
s ii. Thess. iii. , 8, 10.
6 A rather different version of this cir-
cumstance is given, in the Vita S. Rumoldi,
8 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn-
sio, cap. xxv. , p. 36. 9 Leviticus xix. , 13.
I0 "
Ecclesiasti- cal History of Ireland," vol. iii. , chap, xix. ,
sect. xv. , n. 172, p. 201.
" See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore J~>omvn-
sio, cap. xxvi. , pp. 36,37-.
Rumoldi, authore Theodonco, cap. 4, p. 5.
by Theodoric, as follows
negotio nutriverat sylvulam, sub quarum plerumque recubans tegmine meditabatur harmonium Davidicee melodise. Ad nostra
usque tempora
una harum
arborum,
perdurat
dulci digna religione, et grata plantatoris sui recordatione excresit ad materiam lau-
dis. "—Cap. 8, p. 8.
i This is stated, by an ancient writer, as
his mission. "—Dr. Lanigan's
we learn from Mirwus' gundici," p. 360.
"
Fasti Belgiciet Bur-
Also Vlta S' >
:
" Fagineam hoc
their motive was to get the money, which they thought the saint possessed of, and adds that they had been attendants of his. Probably, they supposed that he must have had some money about him towards forwarding the object of
'
Theodoric states, that
26 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July i
which they were engaged, and in order to pay his labourers at the close of day. The cruel murderers selected a lonely place, where they attacked the holyman. Oneofthewretches,withastroke,inflictedadeadlywoundon the prelate's head. He fell on the spot, and almost instantly breathed his last.
