00:00Born in Athens in the 7th century into a noble family, Giles renounced his fortune to follow the call of the
00:06Christ.
00:07He crossed the Mediterranean to settle in Gaul, in Provence, where he chose the life of a hermit.
00:13In a secluded cave, deep in the forest, he lives on prayer and nature, his holiness radiating
00:21already discreetly.
00:23Its most famous legend takes place on a hunting day.
00:26A doe, pursued by archers, including the king, takes refuge near him.
00:32Gilles is protecting her.
00:34An arrow meant for the animal pierces Gilles, wounding him and leaving him lame for the rest of his life.
00:43This injury becomes a sign of his profound compassion and sacrifice.
00:48Touched by this act, the king invites him to found a community.
00:53Gilles then founded the abbey of Saint-Gilles-du-Gare, of which he became the abbot.
00:58This monastery became a major spiritual center, attracting monks and pilgrims.
01:05His wisdom is sought after, his advice heeded, and his healing miracles enhance his reputation.
01:12It is even said that he helped a king confess a serious and unacknowledged sin, making him the
01:19patron of those who struggle with their conscience.
01:23Today, Saint Giles is venerated as the protector of the crippled, beggars, hermits, and foresters.
01:31He embodies radical compassion, the search for solitude for contemplation and service, and the acceptance of
01:40Suffering for love.
01:43His physical injury, far from weakening him, became a symbol of his holy determination.
01:50His abbey was a crucial stop on the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela, testifying to the importance of his
01:57spiritual heritage.
01:59Gilles reminds us that true greatness lies in selfless love and courage of heart.
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