Helladius of Toledo facts for kids
Helladius, also known as Eladio or Elladio of Toledo, was an important Christian leader who lived a long time ago. He was born into a noble family in Spain and later became the archbishop of Toledo. He passed away in Toledo in the year 633.
Helladius started his life in a very important position at the Visigoth royal court. But he felt drawn to a different kind of life – a life as a monk. He joined the Agali monastery and became a monk there. Later, he became the abbot, which is like the leader, of that monastery. The Christian calendar remembers him on February 18th.
Life as a Monk and Archbishop
Helladius was a key official in the Visigoth court. In 589, he represented the king, Reccared I, at a big meeting called the Third Council of Toledo. This meeting was important because it decided against a Christian belief called Arianism.
Even with his important job, Helladius loved visiting the Agali monastery. He soon decided to become a monk there. In 605, he became the abbot of the monastery. Even as a leader, he still did simple chores like bringing in firewood, just like any other monk.
In 615, the archbishop of Toledo, Aurasio, passed away. Helladius was chosen to take his place, even though he didn't really want the job. He served as archbishop for eighteen years.
A famous saint named Ildefonsus studied under Helladius. Ildefonsus was ordained a deacon by Helladius around 632-633. Later, Ildefonsus wrote about Helladius's life. He mentioned how Helladius was very generous to poor people. Ildefonsus wrote that Helladius's kindness seemed to bring warmth and life to those he helped.
See also
In Spanish: Eladio de Toledo para niños
