(A.D. 1006.)
[Gallican Martyrology, Authority:--A Life by Bishop Bernard Guido,
compiled from ancient notices and lives of this saint, published by
Bollandus.]
The blessed Fulcran was a native of Lodeve, in the archdiocese of
Narbonne, in France; and from his childhood exhibited marked piety. He
was educated by Theodoric, Bishop of Lodeve, who also ordained him. On
the death of Theodoric, the city elected Fulcran to be his successor;
and he was consecrated at Narbonne by Archbishop Imerick, on the 4th
February, 949. His zeal and humility endeared him to his flock, as did
also his abundant charity in time of famine. Having been told of a
certain neighbouring bishop that had fallen into heresy, Fulcran, in a
moment of indignation, without weighing his words, exclaimed, "The man
deserves to be burnt!" Shortly after he heard that the people had
burnt the bishop alive. He was at once filled with remorse, fearing
lest his rash and uncharitable speech should have been reported, and
encouraged the people to commit this crime. Unable to find rest of
conscience, he went to Rome, and entering the city, tore the clothes
off his back, and bade his companions beat him through the streets
with thorn branches, till he reached the Church of S. Peter, where he
made his confession with many tears. After this, he returned to his
diocese, but again feeling agonies of remorse, revisited Rome, and
again a third time, subjecting himself to various penances. When his
end drew near, he announced it to his friends, and the rumour
spreading, multitudes poured to Lodeve to see him for the last time,
and receive his parting benediction. Though consumed with fever, he
said Mass in the Cathedral before all, and weeping, prayed for his
flock; then he blessed the tomb he had ordered to be prepared for
himself, and died peacefully shortly after.