Codice prodotto: L10339
Memorial Day: February 10
When did St. William live: 11th - 12th century AD (1099 - 1137)
BIOGRAPHY:
Saint William X of Aquitaine, also known as Saint William the Holy, was born to William IX into one of the most powerful noble families in Europe and succeeded him as Duke of Aquitaine and Count of Poitou. In his early reign, he was known for his stubborn character and his involvement in church-political conflicts, particularly through his support of the antipope Anacletus II. However, his life took a decisive turn through his encounter with Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, who moved him to repentance and reconciliation with the legitimate Church. In deep remorse for his former actions, William renounced worldly splendor and his ducal status. He set out on a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela as a simple penitent. On this pilgrimage, he died on Good Friday in the year 1137, having fully dedicated his life to Christian penance and humility.
PATRONAGE:
St. William is the patron saint of knights, penitents, and armorers.
SYMBOLISM, DEPICTION:
The symbols of St. William are the armor and the ducal garment as a sign of his noble origin, as well as the pilgrim's staff and the wide cloak, which symbolize his turning away from the worldly and his final life phase as a humble pilgrim.
PATRON SAINT OF:
Wilhelm, Willhelm, Willi, Wilhelmme, Willy, Will, William, Bill, Billy, Liam, Guglielmo, Memo, Elmo, Guillaume, Guy, Guillermo, Guglielmo, Guille, Vilhelm, Ville, Viljo, Wilson, Wilke, Wilko, Wim, Helmo, Guliem.