Landry of Paris was a 7th-century bishop of Paris who served as the chief clerk of the Royal Chancery before his appointment to the episcopacy in 650. He is recognized as a saint within the Catholic and Orthodox traditions. During a significant period of famine, he demonstrated great charity by selling his own belongings and various church items to provide food for the impoverished. He is particularly remembered for establishing a hospital dedicated to Saint Christopher, a site that eventually evolved into the Hôtel-Dieu de Paris.
Life and works
Following his time in the royal chancery, Landry became the Bishop of Paris. He contributed to the religious landscape of the city by building the original Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois church. In 653, he was among several bishops who signed a charter for Saint-Denis Abbey, granting it exemption from local episcopal oversight. His charitable legacy includes the founding of the city's first major hospital.
Veneration and legacy
Landry is commemorated annually on 10 June. His remains are primarily housed in a chapel at Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois, though some relics were moved to the Saint-Landry parish in 1408. His influence extends to Louisiana, where St. Landry Catholic Church and St. Landry Parish are named in his honor. Historical accounts also mention miracles attributed to his intercession.