St. Malo of Aleth

Malo, also called Maclou, is remembered as an early bishop of Aleth in Brittany. Butler’s short notice describes him as a Briton connected with the families of St. Samson and St. Magloire. It places part of his education in Ireland, where he advanced in learning before receiving the priesthood.

The traditional account relates that he initially declined an episcopal appointment and withdrew to Brittany. There he sought the guidance of a recluse named Aaron near Aleth. The man who had first preferred retirement was later called to the pastoral care of that city.

His name endured in the neighbouring city of Saint-Malo, to which his relics were carried and the episcopal see eventually transferred. Butler gives competing years for his death in the text and its note. This reading therefore leaves that year open. The short account preserves his connection with the early Church in Brittany and the lasting honour paid to him there.