Vindicianus was a 7th-century bishop who served the see of Cambrai-Arras. Born in Bullecourt, he was chosen to succeed Bishop Aubert around 668. During his tenure, he was active in the religious administration of the region, overseeing the consecration of several churches and monasteries. He is considered a spiritual follower of Saint Eligius and is noted for completing the construction of the Abbey of Saint-Vaast, which his predecessor had started.
Life and work
As a bishop, Vindicianus managed various ecclesiastical matters, including the translation of Saint Maxellende's remains to Caudry. He consecrated the monastery at Honnecourt-sur-Escaut and the church at Hasnon. His administrative reach included signing charters for the abbey at Maroilles and participating in the exhumation of the bodies of Saint Eusebia and Saint Gertrude. He is also linked to the earliest recorded mention of Brussels in 695.
Veneration
Following his death in 695, his remains were initially buried in the woods of Ecoivres. Due to Norman raids in the ninth century, his relics were moved several times between cities like Douai and Arras. After various translations, including those in the sixteenth century, his body was eventually placed in the cathedral at Arras. He is commemorated as a saint with a feast day on 11 March.