Vicelinus

Vicelinus (also Vicelin, ; 1086 – 12 December 1154) was a German bishop of Oldenburg in Holstein who was considered the apostle of Holstein. He was also known as Apostle of Obodriten, of the Wends, Vicelinus, Vincelin, Vizelin, Wissel, Witzel.

Life Vicelinus was born in Hamelin around 1086. Orphaned at an early age, he was raised by his uncle Ludolf, a priest in a neighboring village. He left for Paderborn, where he enjoyed the home and instructions of Hartmann, and soon surpassed his companions and assisted in the management of the cathedral school.

Vicelinus was called to Bremen to act as teacher and principal of the school, and was offered a canonry by Archbishop Frederick of the Archbishopric of Hamburg-Bremen. In 1122, he may have gone to Laon to complete his studies under Abelard. In 1126, Vicelinus decided to travel to Magdeburg, in order to see Norbert of Xanten, who at that time was the archbishop. He hoped that Norbert would ordain him a priest and he could begin missionary work among the Slavs. For one reason or another this plan failed and so Vicelinus returned to Bremen, where Bishop Albero ordained him.

Veneration In 1330, the Augustine canon-law college moved to Bordesholm, and in 1332, his body was transferred there and buried before the main altar. In 1874, the small Catholic parish at Hamelin had his picture engraved on a new bell. He is usually represented with a church resting on his left arm; his feast is celebrated on 12 December.