SAINT OUEN

Saint Ouen is also known as Owen and Audoenus. He was the son of Saint Authaire and was born at Sancy near Soissons, France. He was educated at Saint Medard Abbey and served at the courts of King Clotaire II and his son, Dagobert I. In 641 he was consecrated archbishop of Rouen. He encouraged learning and the founding of new monasteries. He was known for his charities and supported missionary activities to pagan areas of his See. He supported Ebroin, mayor of the palace, against the nobles and at the invitation of Thierry III negotiated a peace between Neustria and Austrasia in Cologne. He died at Clich near Paris on August 24 while returning from Cologne.

His feast day is August 24.