Saint Hubert: From Noble Hunter to Patron Saint of Various Professions

Saint Hubert was a Christian saint who lived in the 8th century. He is the patron saint of hunters, mathematicians, opticians and metalworkers. He is also the patron of the cities of Liège and Saint-Hubert, Belgium.

Hubert was born in Toulouse, France, in 656. He was the son of Bertrand, Duke of Aquitaine. He was raised in the court of the Merovingian King, Childeric II. He was a nobleman and a skilled hunter, and was known for his love of hunting.

At the age of 30, Hubert had a religious conversion while out hunting. He had a vision of a stag with a crucifix between its antlers, and heard a voice saying, "Hubert, unless you turn to the Lord, and lead a holy life, you shall quickly go down to hell." After this experience, Hubert renounced his former life and became a monk.

Hubert then went to the forest of Ardennes, where he lived as a hermit for several years. He studied under the guidance of Saint Lambert, bishop of Maastricht, and later became a missionary bishop in the region. He preached the Gospel and converted many people to Christianity. He also founded several monasteries and churches, including the famous Saint Hubert's Abbey in the Ardennes.

Hubert died on May 30th, 727, and was buried in the abbey he had founded. He was canonized by Pope Saint Sergius II in 825. His feast day is celebrated on November 3th.

Although Saint Hubert is the patron saint of hunting, he actually gave up hunting after his religious conversion. He is also considered the patron saint of mathematicians, due to the legend that he was able to solve a difficult mathematical problem presented to him by the Devil.