Mommolin of Fleury was a 7th-century Benedictine monk who served as the second abbot of Fleury Abbey for three decades. Leading the monastery from 632 until his death in 663, he is primarily known for organizing the transfer of the relics of Saint Benedict and Saint Scholastica from Monte Cassino to France. His leadership and the acquisition of these holy remains significantly increased the prestige and influence of the Fleury monastery, which later became known as Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire.
Life and achievements
During his tenure, Mommolin oversaw a mission to retrieve the remains of Benedict and Scholastica from a ruined monastery in Italy. After the successful relocation, the relics were divided between Fleury and Le Mans. Late in his life, he traveled to Santiago de Compostela. While journeying through the Landes de Gascogne, he reportedly caused a spring to appear at Aureilhan before arriving in Bordeaux, where he was highly regarded for his holiness.
Veneration and legacy
The presence of Benedict's relics at Fleury attracted numerous pilgrims, who provided donations following various miracles. After his death in Bordeaux, many locals attributed many blessings to him. While the monks of Monte Cassino contest the historical account of the relic transfer, Mommolin remains a celebrated figure in the Catholic and Orthodox traditions, with his feast day observed on 18 November.