Saint Julian, Bishop of Le Mans — July 13 / July 26 (Julian Calendar)

On this day, July 13 according to the Julian Calendar (July 26 civil calendar), the Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates Saint Julian, Bishop of Le Mans.

Saint Julian, Bishop of Le Mans (Cenomans), was consecrated a bishop by the Holy Apostle Peter himself. He is traditionally identified with Simon the Leper (Mark 14:3), who received holy baptism and was given the name Julian.

After receiving his episcopal consecration from the chief Apostle Peter, Julian was sent to preach the Gospel in the western lands, specifically to the region of Gaul now known as Le Mans (ancient Cenomans) in present-day France.

There he labored as a faithful missionary and shepherd, converting many pagans to the Christian faith and establishing the Church in that region. He built churches, ordained clergy, and governed his flock with wisdom and pastoral care.

Saint Julian performed many miracles through the grace of God, healing the sick and working other wonders that confirmed the power of the Gospel he preached. He is venerated as the apostle and first bishop of Le Mans.

He reposed in the Lord in the first century after a long and fruitful apostolic ministry. The Church venerates him as an equal to the apostles in his missionary work and honors his memory on July 13 according to the Julian Calendar.