St. William

St. William, who became Archbishop of Bourges, was of the illustrious family of the Counts of Nevers. From early youth he learned to despise the world as well as the empty ness and folly of its pleasures, and to be fearful of their dangers. He received his education from Peter the Hermit. All his spare time was employed in exercises of piety. Shortly after ordination to the priesthood, William was made Canon of Soissons, and afterwards of Paris. Soon Saint William resolved to lead a life of solitude, and went to live with the Monks of Grandmont; later, however, he joined the austere Cistercian Order at Pontigny, and always considered himself the least among his brethren. He was appointed Abbot of Fontaine-Jean, and then Abbot of Chaalis.

Upon the death of Archbishop Henri de Sully of Bourges, St. William was chosen as his successor, in November 1200. St. William was overwhelmed with grief, and only because of the command from the Pope and that of the Abbot of Citeaux, his General, did he acquiesce. Saint William led a saintly life in his new position; he redoubled all his austerities, saying it was necessary for him now to do penance for others as well as for himself. By his zeal he converted many of the Albigenses. While preparing himself for a mission to them St WIlliam was seized with his last illness, and died on January 10, 1209. He was canonized the following year by Pope Honorius III.

Discover a wide collection of products which honor the holy life of St. William: