Aderald was a 10th-century priest and archdeacon from Troyes, France. Educated by religious scholars, he served as an acolyte under Bishop Manasses of Montdidier before entering the priesthood. He was widely recognized for his dedication to assisting the sick and the impoverished. Following a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, he established a priory in the village of Villacerf, which was later renamed Saint-Sépulcre, using a relic he brought from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Life and work
Born to Walon and Odrade, Aderald focused his life on the Holy Scriptures. After his ordination, he gained a reputation for his charitable work. As an archdeacon, he traveled to the Holy Land and returned to found a monastery in the village of Samblières. He passed away on 20 October 1004 and was interred at the priory he had established.
Veneration and legacy
The saint is commemorated by both the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches. His remains were moved to a parish church in 1791 to ensure their safety during the French Revolution. Unfortunately, his relics were later desecrated during the Reign of Terror when his bones were placed in a mass grave. He is honored annually on 20 October.