Venerius (bishop of Milan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Venerius |
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|---|---|
| Archbishop of Milan | |
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| Appointed | 400 or 401 AD |
| Reign ended | 408 |
| Predecessor | Simplician |
| Successor | Marolus |
| Personal details | |
| Died | May 4, 408 |
| Sainthood | |
| Feast day | May 6 |
| Venerated in | Eastern Orthodox Church Roman Catholic Church |
Venerius (Italian: Venerio) was an important church leader. He served as the Archbishop of Milan from around 400 AD to 408 AD. An archbishop is a very high-ranking bishop who oversees a large area of churches. Venerius is respected as a Saint in the Catholic Church. His special day, called a feast day, is celebrated on May 6 each year.
Who Was Saint Venerius?
Almost nothing is known about Venerius's early life before he became a bishop. A historian from the 400s, named Paulinus, wrote about him. Paulinus said that Venerius was a deacon, which is a church helper. He was even there when the famous Saint Ambrose passed away in 397 AD.
Becoming Archbishop
Venerius was chosen to be the Archbishop of Milan after the previous archbishop, Simplician, died. This happened in the winter between 400 and 401 AD. Soon after becoming archbishop, Venerius received an important request. Church leaders meeting in Carthage (in North Africa) asked him to send some church officials from Milan to help them. One of the people Venerius sent was Paulinus, the historian.
Standing Up for What's Right
Venerius was also known for his strong beliefs. He received a letter from Pope Anastasius I, the leader of the Catholic Church. This letter was about condemning certain ideas that were not accepted by the Church.
In 404 AD, Venerius joined forces with Pope Innocent I and Chromatius, who was the bishop of Aquileia. They all stood up for St. John Chrysostom, another important church leader. John Chrysostom had been unfairly removed from his position in Constantinople. Venerius and the others wrote a letter to Honorius, the Western Roman Emperor. They asked him to help John Chrysostom. Honorius then sent this letter to his brother, Arcadius, who was the Eastern Roman Emperor. Even though they tried hard, their efforts did not succeed in helping John Chrysostom.
His Legacy
Venerius passed away on May 4, 408 AD. He was buried in the Church of Saint Nazarius and Celsus in Milan. His life showed his dedication to the Church and his willingness to support others.
