July 18, 2026: Saint Arnulf is celebrated in France
On July 18, the Catholic Church in France and a number of other European countries commemorates St. Arnulf of Metz. He was a bishop, a statesman, an advisor to the Frankish kings, and a man who dedicated his life to serving the people and the Church.
Saint Arnulf is considered the patron saint of brewers, and his life is associated with many legends. In France, this day is marked by religious services and pilgrimages, and his contribution to the history of the country and Christianity is commemorated.
Every year on July 18, France commemorates Saint Arnulf of Metz (Saint Arnoul de Metz)—one of the most famous saints of the early Middle Ages. He lived in the 7th century, served as bishop of Metz, was an advisor to the Frankish kings, and played an important role in the development of Christianity in what is now France.
For Catholics, this is a day of prayer, remembrance, and gratitude for a man who, after public service, renounced power and devoted his life to prayer, helping the needy, and caring for the sick. Saint Arnulf is particularly venerated in the region of Lorraine and in the city of Metz, where he served as bishop for many years.
Who Was Saint Arnulf?
Arnulf was born around 582 into a noble Frankish family. He had a successful career in public service, serving as an advisor to Kings Theodebert II and Chlothar II, and holding important positions at court. He was later appointed bishop of Metz—one of the major centers of the Frankish state at that time.
Despite his high position, Arnulf was known for his modesty. He helped the poor, supported the disadvantaged, and strove to live a simple life. After the death of King Chlothar II, he resigned from his position as bishop, withdrew from political life, and settled near the Remirmont Abbey, where he lived as a hermit, prayed, and cared for the sick, particularly those with leprosy. It was there that he spent the final years of his life.
Why is Saint Arnulf honored on July 18?
The feast day of Saint Arnulf falls on July 18. On this day, the Catholic Church commemorates his life, ministry, and contribution to the development of Christianity. The date is included in the liturgical calendar and is observed annually.
The holiday is not a national holiday in France, but it is of great significance to Catholic communities. In many churches, festive Masses are held, passages from the saint’s life are read, and prayers are offered for peace, wisdom, and strength of spirit. The day is celebrated with particular solemnity in Metz, where Arnulf’s name is inextricably linked to the city’s history.
The Legend of the Ring and the Fish
One of the most famous medieval legends is associated with the life of Saint Arnulf. According to tradition, he threw his bishop’s ring into the Moselle River and said, “I will believe that the Lord has forgiven my sins when this ring returns to me.”
Some time later, fishermen caught a fish that was served at the bishop’s table. Inside it, they found that very ring. Since then, this story has become a symbol of God’s forgiveness, and the ring itself is often depicted in icons and paintings dedicated to Saint Arnulf.
Why He Is Called the Patron Saint of Brewers
Saint Arnulf is also known as the patron saint of brewers. This title is linked to an ancient legend. After Arnulf’s death, his relics were being transported to the city of Metz on a sweltering summer day. The people accompanying the procession were overcome by intense thirst. According to legend, a small amount of beer was enough for all the pilgrims thanks to a miracle attributed to the saint. It was after this that Arnulf came to be regarded as the heavenly patron of brewers and all those involved in beer production.
In some regions of France, Belgium, and Germany, themed festivals are held on this day to introduce guests to traditional brewing and local beer varieties. However, the main purpose of the holiday remains not gastronomy, but honoring the memory of the saint.
How St. Arnulf’s Day Is Celebrated
In France on July 18, the faithful gather for worship, light candles, and pray before the saint’s relics. Solemn services are held in the city of Metz, and pilgrims visit sites associated with his life.
In Catholic communities, this day is a time to reflect on his example of humility, mercy, and service to others. Priests emphasize that Arnulf was able to combine responsible public service with deep faith, and later voluntarily renounced his high position for the sake of a spiritual life.
Interesting Facts About Saint Arnulf
Saint Arnulf is considered one of Charlemagne’s ancestors, as his son Ansegisel became one of the founders of the Carolingian dynasty. It was this dynasty that later played a key role in the history of medieval Europe.
In icons, the saint is often depicted with a bishop’s crozier or a rake—these are his traditional symbols. Furthermore, dozens of French churches, chapels, and towns bear his name, which attests to the special reverence he commands in France.
The Main Idea of the Holiday
St. Arnulf’s Day serves as a reminder that true leadership begins with serving others. On this day, the French commemorate not only a historical figure but also a man who left behind an example of compassion, responsibility, and faith.
For many believers, July 18 is an opportunity to reflect on how even a person in a position of high authority can remain humble, help others, and prioritize humanity over power and personal ambition.
