Saint Walter of Pontnoise
- Also known as
- Walter Gautier
- Memorial
- 17 February
- Profile
- Well educated in general, and a professor of philosophy and rhetoric.
Joined the Benedictines at Rebais-en-Brie to escape the world and the temptations presented by success in his field.
Against his will he was made abbot of Pontnoise by King Philip I; Walter reminded the king that it was by God's will that he did such a thing, not the crown's.
He fled the house several time to escape the position, the last time to Rome where he gave Pope Gregory VII his written resignation; the pope told him to return to his house, assume his responsibilities as abbot, and never leave again.
He obeyed.
Worked against simony, lax discipline, and dissolute lives of some of his clergy.
He was opposed by the corrupt and the corrupters, finally beaten and imprisoned.
On his release, he resumed his work, often spending the whole night in chapel, praying for strength and wisdom.
- Born
- 11th century Picardy, France
- Died
- Good Friday 1099
- Name Meaning
- strong warrior
- Patronage
-
prisoners;
prisoners of war;
vintners
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