Guy of Anderlecht was a late 10th-century Christian saint, often called the Poor Man of Anderlecht. Born in Laeken around 950, he initially worked as a sacristan at the Sanctuary of Our Lady. After a period working as a merchant on the river Senne, he undertook extensive pilgrimages to Rome and Jerusalem as penance. He died in Anderlecht in 1012 following a journey to the Holy Land. He is recognized as a saint within both the Catholic and Orthodox traditions.
Life and travels
After serving as a sacristan in his youth, Guy sought better wages as a trader to support the impoverished. Following the loss of a cargo boat, he viewed the event as divine punishment for greed and traveled to Rome and Jerusalem. During a subsequent pilgrimage to the Holy Land, he accompanied Wondulf, the dean of Anderlecht. Guy returned to his home alone and died of dysentery on 12 September 1012.
Veneration and traditions
As the patron of Anderlecht, he is invoked for protection regarding laborers, sacristans, and various animals. Historically, cabdrivers from Brabant led annual pilgrimages to his site. These processions included farmers and stable boys who brought animals to be blessed. The festivities often concluded with a competition where a rider would enter the church bareback to receive a rose hat from the pastor.