Episode 2310: St. Ulric, Bishop of Ausburg

Born: c. 890 in Kyburg, Zurich, Switzerland
Died: July 4, 973 in Augsburg, Bavaria (modern-day Germany)

Early Life and Background
St. Ulric was born around the year 890 into a noble family in Kyburg, near Zurich, in what is now Switzerland. His father was Count Hucbald and his mother, Thetbirga, belonged to the distinguished family of the Counts of Dillingen. From a young age, Ulric showed a profound piety and inclination towards religious life. He was sent to the Abbey of St. Gall for his education, where he demonstrated exceptional diligence and intellectual prowess.

Ecclesiastical Career
Ulric's early devotion and academic excellence led to his entry into the service of the Church. He became a cleric at the Cathedral of St. Afra in Augsburg. In 923, upon the death of Bishop Hiltine, Ulric was elected Bishop of Augsburg by the clergy and laity of the diocese. His election was confirmed by King Henry I.

Bishop of Augsburg
As Bishop of Augsburg, Ulric was known for his rigorous commitment to pastoral care, the reform of clerical life, and the improvement of moral standards among the clergy and laity. He was particularly concerned with the discipline of the clergy, ensuring they adhered to the rules of celibacy and lived lives of poverty and humility.

Defense Against the Hungarians
One of the most notable events during Ulric's episcopate was the defense of Augsburg against the Hungarians. In 955, during the invasions of the Magyars, Bishop Ulric played a crucial role in the defense of his city. Despite being in ill health, he organized the defense, inspired the defenders, and was present on the battlements during the siege. His leadership and prayers were credited with helping to secure victory in the Battle of Lechfeld, which decisively repelled the Hungarian invaders.

Pastoral Work and Miracles
Ulric was renowned for his charitable work and concern for the poor and the sick. He was known to visit hospitals, distribute alms, and ensure the care of orphans and widows. His life of virtue and miracles attributed to him during and after his life further solidified his reputation as a holy man.

Numerous miracles were reported during his lifetime, including healing the sick and providing food during times of famine. After his death, many more miracles were attributed to his intercession, further solidifying his veneration as a saint.

Canonization and Legacy
St. Ulric died on July 4, 973, and was buried in the church of St. Afra in Augsburg. His tomb quickly became a site of pilgrimage, and numerous miracles were reported at his grave. In 993, Pope John XV canonized Ulric, making him the first saint to be formally canonized by a Pope, which marked a significant development in the process of canonization.

St. Ulric is venerated as the patron saint of diocese of Augsburg, and his feast day is celebrated on July 10th. His life and works remain a model of pastoral care, piety, and dedication to the Church.