Saint Angilbert of Centula

Also known as: Homer
Memorial: 18 February
Profile: Raised at the court of Charlemagne, and became his friend and confidante. Studied under Alcuin. Nicknamed "Homer" because of his Latin poetry. Married Charlemagne's daughter Bertha. With her permission he turned to religious life when prayers for a successful resistance to a Danish invasion were answered and a storm scattered the Danish fleet; Bertha became a nun. Benedictine monk. Court chaplain, privy councilor, and diplomat. As a reward for his help in court, Charlemagne gave Angilbert the abbey of Saint Riquier, Centula where he served as abbot. Established a library at Centula, and introduced continuous chanting in the abbey using 300 monks and 100 boys in relays. Executor of the emperor's will.
Died: 18 February 814 of natural causes
Canonized: Pre-Congregation
Additional Information: Catholic Encyclopedia, by Herbert Thurston
Catholic Online
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