Wandregisel was a 7th-century Frankish monk and abbot who served as the first leader of Fontenelle Abbey. Born near Verdun around 605, he initially worked as a courtier in Metz under King Dagobert I. His religious life included a period as a hermit at Saint-Ursanne and a visit to the Bobbio monastery in 635. He eventually established the monastery in Normandy, where he governed according to the monastic rule of Columbanus.
Life and work
After leaving his position at the Frankish court, Wandregisel entered the monastery at Montfaucon in 629. He later founded the Fontenelle Abbey in Normandy, where he applied the traditions of Columbanus. During his tenure, he is credited with introducing the use of unleavened bread for the Eucharist in the West. He remained at the abbey until his death on July 22, 668.
Veneration and relics
His remains were scattered during Viking raids, though his skull was discovered in Liège during the 1800s and later returned to the abbey in 1967. His devotion was recognized in pre-Conquest England, and he is commemorated in Catholic and Orthodox traditions. The church celebrates his feast day annually on July 22.