Curious about the first known bishop of Cologne? That’s St. Maternus. We stand before what remains of his legacy. St. Maternus, also known as Maternus II, lived around 285 to 315 AD. He wasn’t just a bishop. He was reportedly the third bishop of Trier and the founder of the Diocese of Tongeren.
St. Maternus is venerated as a saint. Both Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches recognize his importance. The Basilica of Saint Maternus in Walcourt, Belgium, was allegedly founded by him. His influence stretched far.
According to historical accounts, St. Maternus was active during the Donatist controversy. Emperor Constantine summoned him and other bishops to Rome in 313. They were to discuss the status of Bishop Caecilianus of Carthage. He also participated in the Synod of Arles in 314. These were significant events in early Church history.
A legend developed in Trier about St. Maternus. A popular cult grew in Cologne. He successfully promoted Christianity in Alsace and Western Germany. This made him the first Apostle of Alsace.
Before a key discovery, Maternus’s participation in the Synod of Rome in 313 was crucial. It was the earliest reliable evidence for Christianity north of the Alps. This evidence came before the Frankfurt silver inscription surfaced.
Legend paints St. Maternus as a follower of Saint Eucharius. Eucharius was the first bishop of Trier. Saint Peter sent Eucharius to Gaul with Deacon Valerius and Subdeacon Maternus. Their mission was to preach the Gospel.
The story takes a miraculous turn. Near the Rhine in Alsace, Maternus died. His companions sought Saint Peter’s help. Peter gave them his pastoral staff. Upon being touched by it, Maternus returned to life after forty days. This led to many conversions.
After founding numerous churches, the three went to Trier. Evangelization progressed rapidly. Eucharius chose Trier as his episcopal residence. St. Maternus assisted Valerius for fifteen years. Then he succeeded him as bishop of Trier for forty years. He also founded the dioceses of Cologne and Tongeren.
St. Maternus founded a church on the site of a Roman temple. This site later became Cologne Cathedral. Imagine the shift from Roman paganism to Christian worship. The staff of Saint Peter, used to raise him from the dead, was preserved in Cologne. The upper half was given to Trier and later taken to Prague.
This legend emerged in the ninth century. It aimed to highlight Trier’s ancient establishment. It asserted Trier’s seniority over other dioceses in Germany.
St. Maternus died in Cologne around 325. He was buried in the Cathedral of Cologne. His legacy continues to inspire faith.
So, as we stand here, remember St. Maternus. He was a bishop, a peacemaker, and a figure of legend. He shaped the early Church in this region. His story echoes through the centuries.