INTRODUCTION

On May 30^th, 2008, Marcus Eligius Lehr was born. His middle name namesake is that of St. Eligius, the Patron Saint of Metalsmiths and Horses. Marcus’ mother has been riding horses since she was nine years old and is currently getting a degree in equine management. I received a Fine Arts Degree from Southern Illinois University and worked for two years as a professional Artist Blacksmith and now currently working on a Masters in Divinity. Lisa and I chose this Saints name as a reflection of our God given passions.  However, knowing that such a Patron Saint exists and not understanding whom Eligius was and the life that he lived does not seem enough.

The team of Bulgarian archaeologist, Professor Nikolay Ovcharov, has discovered relics of a medieval saint at the fortress of Perperikon in the Rhodoppe Mountains.

The remains of human bones were found inside one of two bronze crosses as the archaeologists were excavating two churches.

One of the crosses is larger and has an life-like image of the crucified Jesus Christ on its front, and an image of Virgin Mary praying on its back. It is dated back to 10-11th century.