Saint Heribert (c. 970–1021) was Archbishop of Cologne from 999 and served as chancellor to Emperor Otto III. He was renowned for his generosity to the poor, worked to reconcile rulers and make peace, and founded the Benedictine abbey at Deutz on the Rhine, where he was buried.
Heribert shows that high office and holiness are not opposed: he used political influence and church leadership alike for peace and for the care of the poor. His quiet, steady charity reminds us that authority is a form of service.
Lord, who made Saint Heribert a wise shepherd and friend of the poor, grant that we may use whatever influence we have to serve others in charity and peace. Amen.Enter today’s Mass → All saints →