Biography
Goëry of Metz
About Goëry of Metz
Goëry, also known as Abbon, was a seventh-century bishop of Metz. He succeeded Arnulf, but the dates of his episcopate remain uncertain. The historical catalogue by Michel Parisse and Arnaud Hari places its beginning around 629 or 630 and its end between 643 and 647. The much later Life offers little reliable evidence for his earlier years.
A surviving letter to Desiderius of Cahors brings his responsibilities into clearer view. Writing as Abbo, he discusses efforts to restore property to a woman named Bobila. He then turns to an estate whose revenues King Dagobert had assigned to the lighting of churches at Metz. Its ownership had passed through several hands, and Abbo asks Desiderius to persuade Bobila to approve the agreement sent through a messenger. He appeals to his correspondent’s standing at the royal court and argues for reaching a settlement rather than losing everything.
Later tradition tells a different kind of story. It portrays Goëry as a wealthy Aquitanian who lost his sight, traveled to Metz and was healed after seeking the intercession of Stephen. In gratitude, he is said to have founded a church dedicated to Peter.
His relics were transferred from Metz to Épinal under Bishop Thierry in the late tenth century. Épinal continues to identify Goëry as its patron saint. A teaching booklet issued by the city introduces children to him among the saints whose names recur in local life.
His name also belongs to the parish of Saint-Goëry. The diocesan account identifies him as its patron and encourages the celebration of his feast in September. Nominis records his commemoration on September 19.
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