St. Hilary of Poitiers
Maid of Orléans
"God is one in nature, but multiple in persons."
Saint Facts
- Origin:
- France
- Gender:
- Male
- Vocation:
- Priest
- Birth:
- 315
- Feast Day:
- Jan 13
- Death:
- 367
Saint Details
St. Hilary of Poitiers, born around 315 in Poitiers, Gaul, was a pivotal figure in the early Christian Church. Raised by pagan parents, he was educated in Greek and later converted to Christianity, becoming deeply influenced by the Scriptures. In 350, he was baptized and, despite initial reluctance, was elected Bishop of Poitiers around 353. Hilary's tenure was marked by his fervent defense of orthodoxy against the Arian heresy, which denied Christ's divinity. His refusal to condemn St. Athanasius, a leading opponent of Arianism, led to his exile to Phrygia from 356 to 360 by Emperor Constantius II. During this period, he wrote *De Trinitate*, a seminal work on the Trinity. Upon his return to Gaul, Hilary continued to combat Arianism and wrote commentaries on the Psalms. He was known as the "Athanasius of the West" for his unwavering commitment to orthodoxy. Hilary died around 367 in Poitiers. His legacy as a champion of the faith was recognized when he was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1851 by Pope Pius IX. His feast day is celebrated on January 13. Through his writings and theological contributions, St. Hilary of Poitiers remains a significant figure in Christian history.
Associated Holy Sites
Church of Saint-Hilaire the Great Poitiers
26 Rue Saint-Hilaire, 86000 Poitiers, France
Details for: Church of Saint-Hilaire the Great Poitiers
The Église de Saint-Hilaire-le-Grand, located in Poitiers, France, is a significant religious site dedicated to Saint Hilary, the first bishop of Poitiers. This 11th-century Romanesque church is built over a Roman graveyard and serves as a place of pilgrimage, especially for those traveling along the Routes of Santiago de Compostela in France. The church is known for its intricate Romanesque wall paintings and sculptures, which date back to the original construction period. It was consecrated in 1049 and has undergone restorations, including a major reconstruction after damage during the French Revolution. As a World Heritage Site since 1998, Saint-Hilaire-le-Grand is an important destination for both local Catholics and international pilgrims, offering a glimpse into the rich history and architectural beauty of medieval France. Despite recent challenges, including an arson attack in 2024, the church remains a testament to its enduring religious significance and cultural importance.
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