In 496 A.D., Chlodovocar (Clovis or Louis), the founder of the Frankish power that would develop into modern France and Germany, converted to Catholic Christianity from heathenism. This event held high historical significance. Had Clovis, like other Germanic kings, embraced Arianism, he would have been estranged from his Roman subjects. Instead, the Franks and the Roman provincials merged as in none other of the new barbarian kingdoms. The story of Clovis's conversion provided pious chroniclers ample material for edifying anecdotes.
Chronicle of St. Denis
Chlodovocar, King of the Franks
From The Chronicle of St. Denis, I.18-19, 23:
At this time, the King was yet in the errors of his idolatry and went to war with the Alemanni, wishing to render them tributary. Long was the battle, many were slain on both sides, for the Franks fought for glory and renown, the Alemanni to save life and freedom. When the King saw the slaughter of his people and the courage of his foes, he feared disaster more than victory. Humbly, he looked up to heaven and prayed:
“Most mighty God, whom my queen Clothilde worships, I pledge you perpetual service if only you grant me victory over my enemies.”
Upon his prayer, his men were filled with valor, and fear overtook his enemies, who turned and fled. Victory remained with the King and the Franks. The King of the Alemanni was slain; seeing this, the Alemanni submitted to Chlodovocar and became his tributaries.
The King returned to Frankland, went to Rheims, and told the Queen what had occurred; together, they gave thanks to Our Lord. Clovis made his confession of faith sincerely, bringing joy to the Queen, who immediately sought St. Remi, then the Archbishop of Rheims. The Archbishop quickly taught Clovis the path to God, although he was still uncertain.
When St. Remi preached the Christian faith, Clovis promised to serve only the all-powerful God. He planned to convert his chieftains and people with kindness, rather than by force, a method St. Remi approved. When the people and chieftains were assembled, Clovis spoke to them:
“Lords of the Franks, you should know the falseness of the gods you worship and embrace the true God, who granted us victory against the Alemanni. Lift your hearts and ask our Sovereign Defender to save our souls and lead us to victory.”
Upon hearing this, the Franks renounced their unbelief and acknowledged their Creator.
On the day of Clovis’s baptism, St. Remi prepared a grand procession. Rheims’s streets were adorned, and the church was decorated. The clergy led the procession, carrying holy Gospels, crosses, and banners, chanting hymns and psalms. As they approached, the King asked St. Remi if this was the promised Kingdom of Heaven, to which the bishop replied, “Not so; it is the road that leads to it.”
At the church, a miracle occurred as a dove descended, bearing a vial of holy oil. The fragrance brought an inexpressible delight. Filled with joy, the King renounced Satan and requested baptism. St. Remi proclaimed, “Bow down, fierce Sicambrian! Adore what you once burned, and burn what you once adored!”
Clovis was thrice immersed in baptismal waters and consecrated with the holy oil. His sisters, 3,000 of his warriors, and many women and children were also baptized. That day was one of joy on earth and in heaven.
Afterward, Clovis demonstrated fervent faith, building the splendid St. Genevieve in Paris, where he and Clothilde would later be buried. Certain Franks, led by Prince Ragnachairus, resisted but were eventually subdued, completing the conversion of the Frankish people.
In recognition, messengers from Anastasius, the Emperor of Constantinople, brought gifts, bestowing the titles of "Friend of the Emperor," "Patrician," and "Councilor" upon Clovis. Clad in a senatorial robe, he received these honors, delighting his people.
Gregory of Tours
History of the Franks, II.40
While Clovis resided in Paris, he secretly contacted Cloderic, son of Sigibert, King of Cologne, suggesting:
“Behold, your father is old and lame. If he dies, his kingdom shall be yours due to our friendship.”
Sigibert traveled to the Buconia forest, where his son sent assassins, killing him to claim his kingdom. Cloderic then sent word to Clovis, inviting him to send representatives to collect part of the treasures.
When Clovis’s messengers arrived, Cloderic showed them his father’s treasures. As he reached into a chest, a messenger killed him with a Franciska. Clovis, upon hearing the news, addressed the people of Cologne:
“While I was on the Scheldt, Cloderic, the son of my kin, killed his father under the guise that I desired it. But I had no hand in these events, for I would not shed the blood of my kin. However, as events have unfolded, I ask you to accept me as your king and protector.”
The people of Cologne acclaimed Clovis, raising him on a shield, and proclaimed him their king.
In this way, Clovis’s enemies continually fell, and his kingdom grew as he faithfully served God, doing what was pleasing in His eyes.
