Saint Leonard, patron saint for captives, childbirth, imprisoned people, locksmiths, prisoners of war, women in labor, was born in Limoges, France, at the beginning of the 6th century. Though his exact birth date is unknown, he comes from noble and illustrious parents. Born into Frankish royalty, Leonard belonged to the court of King Clovis I. His relatives were dignitaries, military commanders and people of both privilege and society.
Leonard was baptized by Remigius of Rheims, his god father, who would later become a saint. While Leonard was still very young, the kingdom was threatened by an invading army. The Queen, knowing of Leonard’s Christian faith, jokingly suggested to Leonard that he invoke the help of his God to repel an invading repeal the attack. Leonard prayed, the tide of battle turned and the armies of Gaul were victorious. Saint Remigius of Rheims used this miracle to convert Leonard, the King, and thousands of followers to Christianity.
Saint Remigius of Rheims had persuaded King Clovis to set the prisoners free whenever the king entered the city of Rheims. As a disciple of Saint Remigius of Rheims, Leonard had the permission to visit and free anyone held in prison. So, his association with the liberation of prisoners grew quickly and this is the reason why he is the patron saint of imprisoned people and prisoners of war. Leonard declined the bishopric offer from King Clovis. He embraced Christian virtues and took the tonsure (monk’s haircut) as a symbol to the world of his commitment to serving the Lord.
Leonard began an austere life practicing sanctification, mortification, prayer and fasting for long periods in his zealous dedication to God. His desire to know God grew until he decided to enter the monastery at Micy near Orleans, France, under the direction of Saint Mesmin and Saint Lie. His brother, Lifiard, also followed his example and left the royal court, built a monastery at Meun, and lived there.
Leonard desired further seclusion. Through his prayers the Queen safely gave birth to a male child, thus making him the patron of women in labor. In recompense, Leonard was given royal lands at Noblac. So, he withdrew into the forest of Limousin, converting many on the way. Here, Leonard lived on herbs, wild fruits and spring water.
He built himself an oratory, leaving it only for journeys to churches. Many others begged to live with him and learn from him. So, he founded the abbey of Noblac, around which a village grew, named in his honor Saint-Léonard-de-Noblac.
According to legend, prisoners who invoked Leonard from their cells saw their chains break before their eyes. Many came to him afterwards, bringing their heavy chains and irons to offer them in homage. A considerable number remained with him, and he often gave them part of his vast forest to clear and make ready for the labors of the fields, that they might have the means to live an honest life.
He died in 559 most likely in Noblac, France. Saint Leonard of Noblac is generally represented holding chains in his hands. After his death, churches were dedicated to him in France, England, Belgium, Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Bohemia, Poland and other countries. In fact, in England with its cultural connections to the region, no fewer than 177 churches are dedicated to him. Pilgrims flocked to his tomb, and in one small town in Bavaria there are records of 4,000 favors granted through Saint Leonard’s intercession.
