Saint Hubert

Feast Day: November 3

• Hubert, or Hubertus, was born around the year 656 AD, likely in Toulouse, France, to a noble and wealthy family. He was the eldest son of Bertrand, Duke of Aquitaine, and was raised in a courtly environment. Hubert developed a passion for hunting, a common pastime among the nobility, and he quickly gained a reputation as a skilled and avid hunter.

• In his youth, Hubert was primarily focused on worldly pleasures, and his love for hunting often took precedence over spiritual pursuits. However, a significant turning point in his life occurred on Good Friday, when Hubert was out hunting in the Ardennes forest instead of attending church. During the hunt, he encountered a magnificent stag with a glowing crucifix between its antlers. As Hubert gazed upon the stag, he heard a voice warning him to turn to the Lord or risk his soul's damnation.

• Deeply moved by this miraculous vision, Hubert immediately dismounted, fell to his knees, and sought God's forgiveness. This experience marked the beginning of his conversion. Following the advice of the voice of God, Hubert sought spiritual guidance from St. Lambert, the Bishop of Maastricht, who became his mentor.

• Hubert's life changed dramatically after his conversion. He renounced his noble titles and worldly possessions, dedicating himself entirely to God. He was ordained a priest by St. Lambert and soon after became a missionary to the pagan regions of the Ardennes, where he preached the Gospel with great zeal and effectiveness.

• After the martyrdom of St. Lambert in 705, Hubert succeeded him as the Bishop of Maastricht. He continued Lambert's work of evangelization, founding several churches and promoting the Catholic faith throughout the region. In 717, Hubert moved the episcopal see to Liège, which became an important center for Christianity in the region under his leadership.

• St. Hubert is often credited with converting many people in the Ardennes and surrounding areas. He was also known for his humility, piety, and dedication to his pastoral duties. Despite his high status as a bishop, Hubert remained a simple and devout servant of God, always mindful of his magnificant conversion.

• St. Hubert died on May 30, 727 AD, after a long and fruitful ministry. He was buried in the church of St. Peter in Liège, and his relics were later transferred to the abbey of Amdain. St. Hubert became widely venerated, especially in the regions of Belgium and the Netherlands.

• St. Hubert is the patron saint of hunters, archers, and dogs, as well as of the Ardennes region. His feast day is celebrated on November 3rd, the date traditionally associated with his vision of the stag.

St. Hubert, pray for us!