Germanus served as an abbot before becoming bishop of Paris, where he cared for the poor and for captives. He urged the Frankish kings toward repentance and peace and was revered as a true pastor.
Life
Germanus of Paris was born around 496 near Autun in Gaul. After ordination he became abbot of the monastery of Saint-Symphorien in Autun and was known for his generosity to the poor.
Around 555 he became bishop of Paris and won the respect of King Childebert I, who with him founded a church and monastery that later became Saint-Germain-des-Prés. He is said to have boldly rebuked kings for their wrongdoing and worked to ransom captives. He died in 576.
Spirituality
Germanus' spirituality is generosity to the poor and courage to speak the truth. Though respected by the powerful, he did not flatter them, and he used his influence to help the weak.
Reflection
Saint Germanus spoke the truth to the powerful and was generous to the poor. Am I honest before the powerful and warm toward the weak?