GUICHARD, ROLAND. — Theologian and preacher of the Order of Minims, born at Estampes near Paris in 1528, died at Lyon on 26 June 1612. Nephew of G. Simon (v.) he emulated his virtues and apostolic life.
Having professed the Rule of the Minims at Paris in 1554, he was twice provincial of Lyon and then general visitor.
A champion of the faith, he frequently disputed with heretics, many of whom he brought to the true faith. He nevertheless had to endure grave persecutions: twice poison was administered to him. At Lyon he was cast among the plague-stricken with the intention of causing his death; the servant of God took the opportunity to console the sick by administering the Sacraments to them; and, having been infected, was providentially cured. But the heretics gave him no respite: they even went so far as to decree that he should be burned on a gridiron like s. Lorenzo; but on this occasion too he miraculously escaped. Rich in supernatural gifts, he died in the reputation of sanctity, and his name is inscribed in the Index of the Saints of Lyon.