Gatian, Saint

Gatian, Saint apostle of Touraine, was born at Rome, according to the ancient annalists. His arrival among the Gauls took place, according to Gregory of Tours, under the consulate of Decius and Grotus, i.e., in 250 or 251. When he presented himself at the metropolis of Lyons he did not find the pagans, for the most part, very docile. He preached during the day in the city or in the country round about, choosing to address; the lower class, and at night concealed himself from the violence of enemies. The city of Tours reverenced him as the chief of its bishops. He labored for fifty: years to diffuse the Christian faith, and at the time of his death, which occurred December 20, 301, the Church of Tours was founded. See Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, s.v.; Smith, Dict. of Christ. Biog. s.v.