Acarius facts for kids

Acarius (died March 14, 642) was a special monk who became a bishop. People remember him as Saint Acarius. He was a monk at Luxeuil Abbey, which was a very important monastery back then. Later, he became the Bishop of Tournai and Noyon. These places are now in France and Belgium.

Acarius's Early Life and Education

Acarius was born into a rich and important family in a place called Burgundy. When he was young, he joined Luxeuil Abbey. This was a monastery where monks lived and studied. Acarius learned a lot from Abbot Eustace, who was the head of the abbey. Another famous person, Audomar, who later became a bishop, was also a student there with Acarius.

Becoming a Bishop and Royal Advisor

We don't know the exact year Acarius became a bishop, but we know he was the Bishop of Tournai and Noyon by the year 627. He was also an important advisor to King Clothar II. Acarius helped a lot in spreading Christianity in an area called Belgic Gaul.

Acarius suggested to King Dagobert I that Audomar should become the Bishop of Thérouanne. Acarius was also a strong supporter of a missionary named Amandus. A missionary is someone who travels to teach people about their religion.

Helping the Missionary Amandus

Even though Acarius was powerful, he couldn't stop King Dagobert I from sending Amandus away for a short time. Amandus had spoken strongly to the king, and the king didn't like it. So, Amandus went to another area.

But Acarius, along with Audomar and another royal advisor named Éloi, worked together. They were able to convince King Dagobert to let Amandus come back. Acarius then sent Amandus to preach and teach in the area around Tournai.

Caring for People and Building Monasteries

As a bishop, Acarius cared deeply about people who were poor or suffering. He enjoyed helping them and making their lives better. He also helped build several monasteries, which were important centers for learning and religious life.

Veneration as a Saint

Soon after Acarius passed away in November 640, people began to honor him as a Saint. A saint is a person recognized for their special holiness. Eligius became the bishop after him.

Acarius's memorial day is November 27. People sometimes pray to Saint Acarius if they are feeling grumpy or in a bad mood. The Église Saints-Hugues-et-Achaire de Haspres, which is a church, is dedicated to him.

Images for kids

• 

  Bust of Acarius in Haspres

• 

  Stained glass window of Acarius in Haspres