Leodegarius

Leodegarius, also Leodegar (Latin Leodegarius), known in French as Saint Léger or Leger, was a 7th-century bishop of Autun in the Frankish kingdom. Born around 615–620, he served as bishop of Autun during the later 7th century and guided the diocese through a period of religious reform and political tension.

As bishop, Leodegarius defended the rights and property of the Church against secular authorities. He allied with other bishops and opposed the influence of powerful Neustrian nobles, notably the faction led by the mayor of the palace Ebroin. The ensuing conflict contributed to his arrest and imprisonment in the late 670s. Medieval sources recount that he died in prison, around 679, and he was venerated as a martyr from an early date.

Veneration and legacy: Leodegarius was canonized as a saint and became an important cult figure in Gaul. His feast day is observed on October 2 in Western liturgical calendars. His cult was strongest in Autun and Burgundy, and the Cathedral of Saint-Léger in Autun remains a focal point of his memory. His relics were honored in the region and, as with many medieval saints, his name spread to churches and chapels beyond his diocese. Leodegarius is remembered as a model of episcopal courage and steadfastness in defense of ecclesiastical rights.