Ménélé was a 7th-century French monk who established the Menat Abbey. Born in Anjou around 650, he reportedly belonged to a family with ties to the Roman emperor Heraclius. To avoid an arranged marriage, he fled to Auvergne, where he entered a monastery under the guidance of Abbot Theofredus. After several years of training, he founded his own monastic community near Clermont, which eventually took his name.
Life and foundation
After fleeing his home to dedicate himself to Christ, Ménélé spent years studying in a monastery in Auvergne. According to hagiographical accounts, an angel directed him to build a monastery at a specific location where he had previously rested under an oak tree. This site became the Menat Abbey, which he governed for many years. He eventually passed his leadership to his companion, Saint Savinien, before his death in 720.
Veneration
The saint is commemorated on July 22. He is particularly venerated in the regions of Anjou and Auvergne. His legacy is preserved through the abbey he founded, and he is recognized in both Catholic and Orthodox traditions.