Saint Modoald was a Frankish archbishop who led the see of Trier between 626 and 645. Born in the mid-6th century in the region of Flemish Brabant, he was the son of Arnulf, a future bishop of Metz. While serving at the Merovingian court of King Dagobert I, he was appointed to his ecclesiastical position. He is recognized as a saint within the Catholic and Orthodox traditions.
Life and work
During his tenure, Modoald founded the community of Saint-Symphorien along the Moselle river. He placed this community under the leadership of his sister, Saint Severa. His influence extended to the education of others, including Germanus of Granfelden, who was entrusted to his care by a wealthy senatorial family from Trier.
Veneration
He is commemorated as a saint with a liturgical feast day observed on 12 May. Modoald serves as the patron saint of the Reichsabtei Helmarshausen. His legacy is preserved through various religious traditions that honor his service to the early Frankish church.