1st April - Born in Châteauneuf-sur-Isère in 1053, Saint Hugues was first, at the age of 20, a priest in Valence and then appointed Bishop of Grenoble in 1080.

He fought mainly for the freedom of the Church and for priests to lead a life of holiness. Constant in the abuses and indecent conduct of his priests, Hugues tried in vain to revive the faith in his diocese and to correct the clergy. Discouraged, he withdrew to the monastery of Chaise-Dieu, but was immediately recalled by the Pope to take charge of the salvation of his flock.

A few years later, St. Bruno founded the Carthusian monasteries in the diocese of Hughes, and he enjoyed visiting them and staying with them, as he was particularly fond of the solitude of hermitage life. Bruno considered this attitude as an escape and asked Hughes to return to his flock, which he did without reluctance. In spite of the moments of discouragement because of what happened in his diocese, Hugues still managed to save a great number of souls through his spiritual strength. His teachings and his example touched many hearts, especially in the confessional, where on many occasions he cried with the penitents who came to confession. It was Hugues' commitment that convinced them to change their lives and behaviour.

Humility and compassion were the greatest virtues of St. Hughes. He was so willing to help the poor and needy that he sold all his possessions and even his priestly accessories, such as the chalice and even his bishop's ring. He also fought boldly in the interests of the Church. The zeal and perseverance of St. Hugues are good examples to be taken from him.