SAINT MAXIMUS, BISHOP OF MAINZ - 18 NOVEMBER

 

ALL SAINTS CELEBRATED IN NOVEMBER

Saints celebrated on the 18th of November

WELCOME!

SAINT MAXIMUS, BISHOP OF MAINZ

Of Saint Maximus, bishop of Mainz, we have little reliable information. According to some he lived towards the end of the fourth century, others maintain that he flourished at the beginning of the fifth age. In any case, it was not him, but St Maximin of Trier who presided over the Council of Cologne in 346, because at the time in question the See of Mainz was headed by Bishop Martin.

St Maximus had much to suffer in his time. The Roman Martyrology* confirms this fact. He possessed many talents and great learning, which were surpassed only by his zeal and piety. 

As is generally assumed, he was born in Mainz. According to the Proprium of the Mainz Diocese, Maximus was ordained by St Adelhard and remained a faithful servant of the Church under both his leadership and that of his successor Lucius Annaeus. Maximus continued to preach the orthodox faith throughout the various persecutions. 

As bishop he redoubled his zeal. He went barefoot through the villages of the diocese, not only carrying everywhere the lamp of the divine word, but also giving powerful encouragement by his example, and thus promoted the faith and good morals. He thereby incurred the hatred of the Arians to such a degree that they not only severely beat him on seven different occasions, but also drove him out entirely. But this holy bishop knew no fear, and time and time again he returned to his flock. When he was not permitted to preach publicly, he did so in the houses, and often in the surrounding forests and in nearby mountain clefts. Sidonius, Achatius and Clemens are mentioned as his most outstanding aides. After his death, Maximus' sacred remains were transferred to Halle.

(Information from Stadler's Complete Encyclopedia of Saints, Volume 4, Augsburg, 1875)

*A hagiography source used by the authors 

Stadler's Complete Encyclopedia of Saints - Sources and Abbreviations

PRAYER:

Grant, we beseech you, almighty God, that the venerable feast of Saint Maximus may increase our devotion and promote our salvation. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.