Geminianus

The Holy Geminianus, it. San Geminianus or San Gimignano (* perhaps the 4th century in Rome, † 31 January 397 in Modena [? ] ), In the 4th century Bishop of Modena. He is Patron of the Cathedral of Modena and the patron saint of the city of Modena, San Gimignano and Pontremoli.

Life

The name Geminianus can think of coming from a city of Roman senators narrowness bad.

The only reliable news about Geminianus ' life and work concerns a northern Italian synod, Ambrose of Milan in 390 summoned to Milan in order to convict Jovinian as heretics. At this Synod the Bishop of Modena took in person or by proxy. As Ambrose he should have been a staunch opponent of Arianism.

His liturgical memorial day, January 31, may be accepted as his date of death.

Worship

The San Geminianus worship is alive in Modena since early times. The ancient healing and exorcism narratives that combine with his name, apparently are reflective of an outstanding personality. As early as the 5th century is over his grave, testified outside the former city at today's cathedral, a church.

In the Middle Ages Modena understood as Civitas Geminiana ( " Geminianus City "). A translation of the 12th century legend tells of an investigation of the relics of the saint, which proved to be genuine miracles, and entry into the cathedral, where they rest today.

Another legend attributes the saints to the rescue of Modena from the invading Huns. His prayer had caused the emergence of a thick fog that forced the enemy to withdraw.

The worship of saints and outside Modena testified, among others the Tuscan town of San Gimignano.