Codice prodotto: L10339
Memorial Day: March 23
When did Saint Walter live: 11th century AD (approx. 1030 - 1099)
BIOGRAPHY:
Saint Walter of Pontoise was born around 1030 in Picardy, France, and after an extensive education as a professor of philosophy, he entered the Benedictine Abbey of Rebais. Due to his deep piety and discipline, he was appointed the first abbot of the newly founded monastery in Pontoise, an office he held throughout his life despite his personal desire for solitude and asceticism. Several times he attempted to escape his responsibilities - including a flight to the Abbey of Cluny - but was always ordered by the Pope to return and lead his monks. He was characterized by his tireless dedication to the poor and oppressed, as well as his resistance against corruption within the clergy. Saint Walter passed away on Good Friday in 1099 at his monastery in Pontoise, where he is still venerated today as a model of humility and obedience.
PATRONAGE:
Saint Walter is the patron saint of vintners and winegrowers, as well as prisoners.
SYMBOLISM, DEPICTION:
The symbols of Saint Walter in this depiction are the grapes on the book, which point to his patronage of viticulture and the fertility of faith. The abbatial staff marks his position as head of the monastery of Pontoise, while the book represents the Holy Scriptures or the Rule of Saint Benedict. The books under his feet symbolize the overcoming of worldly scholarship and vain philosophy in favor of divine wisdom and monastic humility.
PATRON SAINT OF:
Walter, Walther, Walter, Gauthier, Walt, Wally, Wat, Watty, Wallie, Valter, Wolter, Wout, Wouter, Gualterius, Gutierre, Valterio, Walti, Watse, Watze, Gautier.