“See those stained-glass windows? They honor St. Evergislus.
Welcome to St. Evergislus. It is a testament to faith. It is a story etched in stone and glass. Our journey explores the life of St. Evergislus. We will discover the story of his relics.
St. Evergislus served as the fifth bishop of Cologne. He was also the first with a Frankish name. His tenure faced unrest from migrations. Yet, he strived for religious life and peace.
Gregory of Tours mentioned Evergislus. He noted that Evergislus built a church. It honored the martyr Mallosus near Xanten. Also, in 590, he resolved a dispute. This involved a nunnery in Poitiers for Childebert II.
Legend says Evergislus came from Tongeren. Bishop Severin of Cologne visited there. Severin took Evergislus to Cologne. He educated him and ordained him as a deacon. Upon Severin’s death, Evergislus became his successor.
In 954, Archbishop Bruno I moved his relics. They came from Tongeren to St. Cecilia’s Church in Cologne. Legend explains Bruno’s dream. Evergislus appeared in dirty clothes. He asked why his clothes were neglected. Bruno moved the relics to Cologne.
French troops plundered the Evergislus shrine in 1794. This was during the occupation of Cologne. In 1802, the remains of the shrine went to St. Peter. Joseph Aldenkirchen created a new metal cover in 1837.
An inscription tells of its journey. It mentions the transfer due to French suppression. It also notes the restoration under Archbishop Clemens August.
Joseph Aldenkirchen designed the current shrine. It has classicist features. Pilasters divide the figures. The sides feature the twelve apostles. The ends show St. Evergislus and St. Severin.
A relic of St. Evergislus is in Brenig. It was acquired by Pfarrer Nikolaus Joseph Huick. The relic is displayed and venerated. This happens during the Patronage Festival.
St. Evergislus is the patron saint of glaziers. He is also patron of the Cologne painters’ guild. St. Evergislus in Bad Godesberg-Plittersdorf is also dedicated to him.
St. Evergislus stands as a symbol of faith. His life embodies sacrifice and devotion. His story echoes through these walls. It reminds us of the enduring power of belief. It inspires those who seek solace and guidance within this sacred space.