September 7: Saint Clodoald

Today, September 7, we celebrate the feast day of Saint Clodoald (also known as Saint Cloud, 522-560), a noble man born into privilege and royalty who renounced his life of ease for one of service to the Lord. Saint Cloud reminds us that our daily choices allow us to grow closer to, or further from, the great plan and gifts that the Lord has in store for us. By accepting God’s Will for us, we are able to better serve others, becoming a part of the grace and love of the Lord.

Clodoald was born in 552, the grandson of King Clovis the First of France. He was named after the city of the same name, suggested by the city-plotter, and foretelling of his life of humility and humble service. Clodoald was raised in Paris by his grandmother, Saint Clotilde, who instructed he and his two brothers—Theodoald and Gunther—in the ways of the faith. Clodoald and his brothers were also being groomed for the throne, with the area of control of their grandfather to be split amongst them. However, sadness and bitter family rivalry was to prevent that as the boys’ uncle, Clotaire I, had Clodoad’s brothers assassinated. Clodoald managed to escape to Provence, and drawn to a more contemplative life, renounced all claims to the throne.

In Provence, Clodoald found a mentor in Saint Severinus of Noricum, and lived and studied with him as a disciple for eleven years. Over time, he became known for his gentleness, humility, and counsel, and many visited him for spiritual direction and healing. Remembering the excess of his upbringing, Clodoald gave all he had to those in need, but gradually felt the need to return to society. Returning to Paris, he was received with joy, and at the urging of the people, was ordained a priest by Bishop Eusebius. As a priest, he went about his daily tasks with profound humility, diligence, and impact on those he encountered.

Saint Clodoald established a holy place at Nogent-sur-Seine that is now a collegiate church of canons regular called Saint Cloud. His relics are venerated there, whereas the village hosting his tomb has been renamed in his honor.

Today, as we celebrate the feast of Saint Clodoald, we pray for the acceptance of God’s Will in our own lives.

Prayer for Acceptance of God’s Will

Lord, teach me to be patient - with life, with people, and with myself. I sometimes try to hurry things along too much, and I push for answers before the time is right. Teach me to trust Your sense of timing rather than my own and to surrender my will to Your greater and wiser plan. Help me let life unfold slowly, like the small rosebud whose petals unravel bit by bit, and remind me that in hurrying the bloom along, I destroy the bud and much of the beauty therein.


Instead, let me wait for all to unfold in its own time. Each moment and state of growth contains a loveliness. Teach me to slow down enough to appreciate life and all it holds. Amen.