Saint Theotonius of Coimbra

Life story

Theotonius (Teotónio) was born around 1082 (one source says 1086) in northern Portugal. He was ordained a priest, became a canon of Viseu Cathedral and later held the office of archpriest there, known as a preacher and for his austere life.

He made two pilgrimages to the Holy Land. After the second he wanted to found a community living under the Rule of St Augustine. Work on the Holy Cross (Santa Cruz) monastery at Coimbra began in 1131; Theotonius joined the community of Augustinian canons there and became its prior; he is regarded as the first to hold that office.

He was a trusted adviser to Afonso Henriques, the first king of Portugal. The king believed his victories were won through Theotonius's prayers.

He died in Coimbra on 18 February 1162, which is also his feast day. He was venerated as a saint, and Pope Benedict XIV later confirmed his cult; no formal papal canonisation is documented.

Works and witness

• Made two pilgrimages to the Holy Land
• Joined the Augustinian canons at Holy Cross monastery, Coimbra (begun 1131), and became prior
• Adviser to King Afonso Henriques
• Died in Coimbra on 18 February 1162
• His cult was confirmed by Benedict XIV

Saints from the same country

Saint Anthony of Padua, Saint Elizabeth of Portugal, Saint John of God, Saints Francisco and Jacinta Marto

References

• Wikipedia: 'Theotonius of Coimbra' (death 18 February 1162, first prior of Holy Cross, cult confirmed by Benedict XIV)
• CatholicSaints.Info, 'Saint Theotonius of Coimbra', catholicsaints.info/saint-theotonius-of-coimbra/
• Catholic Encyclopedia, 'Coimbra' and 'Portugal', newadvent.org/cathen/04095b.htm and 12297a.htm

Written by Anawim from documented history. Some details about ancient saints rest on tradition and are marked as such.