Amator of Auxerre was a 4th-century bishop who led the diocese of Auxerre from 388 until 418. Born into a wealthy family, he entered the clergy after a unique wedding ceremony led by Bishop Valerian resulted in a consecration rather than a marriage blessing. This event prompted him and his wife to live a life of religious devotion. During his thirty-year episcopacy, he worked to convert pagans and established two churches, including one dedicated to Saint Symphorian.
Life and ministry
As bishop, Amator actively promoted the faith by bringing the relics of Saint Cyricus to France. He famously clashed with a local duke named Germanus over the use of a sacred site for hunting. After a period of fleeing from the duke's anger, Amator returned to forcibly ordain Germanus as a deacon. Following Amator's death, Germanus succeeded him as the leader of the see.
Veneration and legend
He is remembered as a saint in the Catholic Church, with his feast day observed on 1 May. Tradition links him to the founding of the sanctuary at Rocamadour. While some legends identify him with the biblical Zacchaeus or suggest he carved a famous wooden Madonna, these accounts are often considered separate from the historical bishop of Auxerre.