Drogo of Sebourg

About Drogo of Sebourg

Drogo was a Flemish shepherd and penitent who lived as a hermit. Born to noble parents, his mother died in childbirth, which caused Drogo lifelong guilt and intense penitential practices. At age 18, after learning of his birth circumstances, he gave his wealth to the poor and became a shepherd for a farm near Sebourg, working for room and board while living in extreme austerity. Drogo made nine pilgrimages to Rome (some say he went up to nine times), and was reported to bi-locate—appearing simultaneously tending sheep at home and on pilgrimage. He suffered from a disfiguring hernia that grew grotesque over time, causing him such shame that he lived as a recluse in a cell attached to a church for his final 40 years. Despite terrible suffering, Drogo was known for cheerfulness and holiness, counseling visitors through his cell window. He is patron of shepherds, those suffering bodily ailments and hernias, and mysteriously of coffee houses. His cult remains strong in northern France and Belgium.