Eliphius was a 4th-century deacon and martyr whose origins are subject to historical debate. While some traditions suggest he was the son of a king from Scotia, other scholars propose he was a local from the Toul region. He is primarily remembered for his missionary work in Toul, where he successfully converted 400 individuals to Christianity. According to certain accounts, he also served as a bishop in the same area before his death.
Life and death
Accompanied by several siblings, including Eucharius and three sisters, Eliphius preached the Christian faith. Following the orders of Julian the Apostate, most of his siblings were executed by beheading near Toul. The group was reportedly buried at Mount Eliph. Although some sources link him to royal Irish lineage, other historical accounts suggest he may have been the son of a man named Baccius.
Veneration
The saint is commemorated on October 16. His relics were once held at the Great St. Martin Church in Cologne, where he served as a secondary patron, before being moved to Toul. He is recognized within Catholic and Orthodox traditions, and his legacy is preserved through the various accounts of his martyrdom and missionary efforts in the Lorraine region.