Antelm, Saint

ANTELM, Saint. - Bishop of Belley (France), b. in 1107 to a noble family in the castle of Chignin (Savoy), d. at Belley on June 26, 1178. He was first a secular priest at Belley, then entered the charterhouse of Portes near Belley, from where, still a novice, he was sent to the Grande Chartreuse, of which he became prior in 1139; he was also the first superior general of the Carthusians. He held two general chapters, spread the Order with five new foundations, and was zealous for discipline. Having resigned his office in 1151, he was elected prior of Portes (1152-54), then withdrew again 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 at first opposed him, granted him the feudal lordship over Belley and named him prince of the empire. This irritated Count Humbert of Maurienne, 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 glorified by miracles. His feast in the Roman Martyrology is recorded on June 26.