Antelm, Saint

ANTELMO, saint. — Bishop of Belley (France), born in 1107 to a noble family in the castle of Chignin (Savoy), died at Belley on 26 June 1178. He was first a secular priest at Belley, then entered the charterhouse of Portes near Belley, whence, while still a novice, he was sent to the Grande Chartreuse, of which he became prior in 1139; he was also the first general of the Carthusians. He held two general chapters, extended the Order through five new foundations, and was zealous for discipline. Having resigned his office in 1151, he was elected prior of Portes (1152–54), then withdrew once more to the Grande Chartreuse. Alexander III compelled him to accept the bishopric of Belley (1163–78) and consecrated him at Bourges. Frederick I Barbarossa, who had at first opposed him, granted him feudal lordship over Belley and appointed him prince of the Empire. This angered Count Umberto of Moriana, with whom he had bitter disputes. He died surrounded by the veneration of the faithful, to whom he had been a true father. His tomb was renowned for miracles. His feast is recorded in the Martirologio romano on 26 June.