St. Leander of Seville
Without St. Leander’s faithfulness, Spain would not have such a rich Catholic history. For his work opposing heresy, the Church in Spain recognizes him as a doctor of the faith.
St. Leander came from a royal family in Cartagena, Spain, and his three siblings are all honored as saints (including his brother, St. Isidore of Seville). He grew up in the 6th century and was known for his eloquence and charismatic personality, even as a youth. At an early age, he entered the monastery for several years of intense study and prayer.
Leander became known for his holiness, and was old enough when the bishop of Seville died that he was unanimously chosen to replace him. His task was clear—the Arian heresy was widespread at the time (the belief that Jesus was not fully human), and Leander set out to preach the truth. His prayer and eloquent arguments won many over to orthodoxy.
He became friends with St. Gregory the Great before that man became pope, and the two exchanged letters and supported one another.
Political divisions in Spain aligned with doctrinal differences, and Leander was exiled for opposing Arianism. He continued his fight, however, writing three books while he was away.
Leander was eventually restored, and had the opportunity to instruct successors to the throne, which helped to convert the whole nation.
He had a great appreciation for the importance of prayer in the Christian life. Several councils were held under his leadership, and he helped reform the liturgy in Spain at the time.
St. Leander died in 596, and his image is used here with permission from Catholic.org.
St. Leander of Seville, you restored true faith to Spain--pray for us!
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