St. Anian of Orléans

Anian, called Agnan in French, was associated with Vienne before becoming a disciple of Bishop Evurtius at Orléans. Butler describes a youth given to prayer and penance, followed by service in the Church whose pastoral care he eventually inherited. His memory became especially closely connected with the deliverance of Orléans during Attila’s invasion of Gaul.

When the city was threatened, Anian went to seek help from the Roman general Aetius. On returning to his people he encouraged them both to defend their city and to pray. Butler follows St. Gregory of Tours in describing the relief that arrived while the siege was pressing hard, and the gratitude with which the bishop’s prayers were remembered.

The account also contains an important distinction about its sources. Butler questions the story that Anian’s name was chosen by a child drawing lots at the altar; he does not make that detail the foundation of the bishop’s election. The lasting remembrance is of a pastor who remained with a frightened people and sought help for them in a time of war.