Saffaracus of Paris

Saffaracus of Paris was a 6th century French bishop.

Early life

We know almost nothing of his life, except that he was probably of Frankish origin and before being made Bishop of Paris he was an abbot.[1]

Career

Saffaracus was present at the Fifth Council of Orléans in 549.[2][3]

Saffaracus is best known for having been at a council called to dismissed from his ministry. This event is reported by Gregory of Tours, who refers to it without giving any explanation.[4] However, Charles Louandre specifies, that convinced of a capital crime, he was exiled to a monastery where he finished his days.[5]

Saffaracus, forgot the duties of his ministry. Accused and convinced by his own confession of a capital crime, in a council summoned to Paris expressly to judge him, he was condemned to be shut up for the rest of his days in a monastery; but this is an exceptional fact.

This capital crime was probably simony or repeated adultery, as other authors have pointed out.

As for the council or synod in question, it is the Council of Paris, which some fix in 551,[6] while others in 552, but more likely of 553. This council, organized to judge him, was summoned by King Childebert and presided over by the archbishop of Arles, Sapaudus.[7]

Be that as it may, Saffaracus deposed was confined in a monastery and replaced by Eusebius, although Gregory of Tours says Saint Nicet replaced him.[8]

References

  1. ^ Jean-Baptiste Dubos Critical History of the Establishment of the French Monarchy in Gaul 1734
  2. ^ Jean-Baptiste Dubos, Critical history of the establishment of the French monarchy in Gaul 1734 - Book 6, Chapter 5.
  3. ^ Gregory of Tours, History of the Franks - Book IV
  4. ^ Gregory of Tours History of the Franks - Book IV.
  5. ^ Charles Louandre The Church and Bishops of Paris 1851.
  6. ^ Jacques-Antoine Dulaure Physical, civil and moral history of Paris: from the early days. (1829) - page 354.
  7. ^ Louis Mas Latrie Historical chronology of popes, general councils and councils of Gaul and France 1836 - page 331
  8. ^ Gregory of Tours History of the Franks Book IV.