ildephonsus

23 January – Saint Ildephonsus of Toledo, Bishop & Doctor of the Church
Optional Memorial (Ordinary Time)

The Marian defender of Spain.
Born c. 607 in Toledo, raised in a holy family, entered the monastery of Agali near Toledo, became abbot, then archbishop in 657. Famous for his profound devotion to the Virgin Mary — wrote the first Western treatise exclusively on her perpetual virginity (De perpetua virginitate Sanctae Mariae), defended her against doubters, and composed the earliest known Marian Mass formulary in the West.

Legend says Our Lady appeared to him and placed her own chasuble on his shoulders as a sign of special favor — the event is still celebrated in Toledo with a solemn Mass and the chasuble relic venerated.

He died on 23 January 667. Patron of Toledo, of virgins, and of those devoted to Mary’s purity.

Green vestments. Ordinary Time continues with a bishop whose pen and heart were always turned to the Mother of God.

When theology grows cold or skeptical, Ildephonsus reminds: the truth of Mary is not a side issue — it is the safeguard of the Incarnation itself.

St. Ildephonsus, pray for bishops, theologians, and all who honor the Blessed Virgin with love and precision.

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