Saint Hubert is also known as Saint Hubertus and holds the unique position of being revered by hunters as Saint Hubert. It is a story of dedication and devotion to the hunting world that is told on November 3rd every year.
Saint Hubert: The Early Life
Saint Hubert was a member of a noble family from Maastricht in France, between 656-705 A.D.. He grew to be a man of luxury and grandeur, as his lineage traces back to royalty. Hubert’s archery was legendary despite his upbringing.
Hubert had legendary hunting skills. He was known for his perfect aim and ability of bringing in abundant feasts. Hubert’s life was changed forever during a Good Friday hunting expedition when he met a stag.
Saint Hubert’s Vision
According to legends, Hubert cornered this majestic stag while riding on his horse. The mighty buck then turned and faced who is the patron saint of hunters. The stag had glowing crucifixes between its antlers. Hubert recalled that at that moment he heard and saw a voice encouraging him to live a holy and godly life.
Hubert’s Spiritual Transformation
Hubert, deeply affected by this experience renounced a life of privilege and luxury. Hubert gave up his titles including his birthright of the future Duc d’Aquitane and dedicated himself fully to Christianity. His wife Floribanne passed away while giving birth their son Saint Floribert. Hubert focused his entire spiritual journey on Hubert after Floribanne’s death.
Hubert’s Journey in the Church
Hubert turned to Bishop Lambert, who was his spiritual advisor. Hubert underwent a pilgrimage in Rome to meet Pope Paul VI. Hubert was then ordained and later became the first Bishop in Liege and the 31st Bishop in Maastricht.
Saint Hubert’s Legacy
Saint Hubert, a priest of the Catholic Church, performed many miracles including exorcisms. He also cured rabies. His efforts in spreading Christianity to pagan areas have earned him the title “Apostle in the Ardennes”.
The Symbolism of Saint Hubert
Saint Hubert can be represented by a stag that has a cross, or crucifix, between its antlers. This symbol has been widely adopted by hunters. It is even featured on Jagermeister’s bottle caps.
Honoring All Living Forms
Saint Hubert was not only made the Patron Saint for hunters but also promoted the concept of respecting the life of the animal. In his time feasts were organized to celebrate the energy transferred by the animal from the hunter to the animal after a successful kill.
Saint Hubert represents spiritual transformation, dedication and a commitment to God. He has a profound influence on hunters, archers. mathematicians. opticians. metalworkers. Hunting Necklaces, Saint Hubert Medals, and Saint Hubert Medals all serve as tangible signs of devotion to Saint Hubert.