Eutropius of Orange was a 5th-century bishop who served the church in what is now France. Born into a noble family in Marseille, he lived a dissolute youth before experiencing a religious conversion following the death of his wife. Although he initially fled the responsibilities of his office, he returned to his duties after being encouraged by a holy man. During his twelve-year episcopate, he was noted for his deep piety and his willingness to perform manual labor alongside his followers.
Life and ministry
As the successor to Justus, Eutropius held the bishopric of Orange for approximately twelve years. He was a learned man who participated in the Councils of Arles in 463 and 475. His commitment to his flock was demonstrated through physical labor, such as ploughing fields or carrying stones at construction sites. He maintained friendships with contemporaries like Faustus of Riez and corresponded with Pope Hilarius. His diocese was eventually destroyed by the Visigoths.
Veneration and legacy
Eutropius is remembered as a saint and is commemorated on 27 May. His successor, Verus, authored a biography around the year 500 that recorded several miracles, including the healing of a person struck by lightning. His remains are currently located in the altar of the St Mary Magdalene Chapel at the London Oratory. In Orange, he is depicted in a 19th-century stained glass window within the Notre-Dame Cathedral.