St Leobinus of Chartres healing oil (patron for edema)

Son of peasants, he was a field worker and shepherd in his youth. Thirsting for education, he went to the monastery at Noailles, France, working for the monks by day, being taught by them at night. He studied late by candle light, which annoyed the monks who had to wake for early prayers; Leobinus put a screen around the candle, and pressed on.

Friend of Saint Carilef. Student of Saint Avitus of Perche, who suggested that the young man join his monastery. Monk at Lyon, France. Captured by renegade soldiers during war between the Franks and Burgundians, Leobinus was tortured to make him give up the location of the monastery‘s treasure. He told the soldiers nothing, and they left him for dead, thinking they’d drowned him; he eventually recovered.

Joined Saint Avitus‘ community at Le Perche, France. Priest. Abbot at Brou, France. Bishop of Chartres, France. Noted reformer. Participant of the synod of Orleans in 549, and Paris in 552. Miracle worker; had the gift of healing, especially of dropsy or edema. Worked with Saint Caletric who gave him his last Communion, and succeeded him as bishop. Innkeepers and wine merchants near Chartres considered him their patron.

Tradition of oils

The tradition of anointing with sacred oil is very old indeed. It is used in sacraments and also as a devotional practice. The sick person applies the oil and blesses themselves. As they do so, they are asked to pray to whomever the oil is dedicated to. The Irish blessings oils do not have miraculous power.  It is God who has the power to heal.  Applying the oil while praying are important ways for us to express our faith in God’s power. Moreover, by doing so we place our trust in God.