As a teenager, Godfrey, a native of Treves, France, combined a dedication to the study of Scripture and ecclesiastical literature with a deep purity of heart. While serving as a chanter in the cathedral of Le Mans, he exhibited great generosity in his donations to the poor and to the fitting adornment of churches. In 1234 Godfrey was chosen to become bishop of Le Mans. While zealously applying himself to his episcopal responsibilities, he continued his corporal works of mercy to the needy, and fortified his soul with contemplation and spiritual reading. When in 1254 the construction of Le Mans cathedral was completed, Godfrey insisted upon carrying with his own hands the relics of the third century bishop Saint Julian of Le Mans to the high altar for the veneration of the faithful. Godfrey also helped to found a Carthusian monastery at Parc d'Orques, personally funding the construction of a spacious new church for the monks. It was while journeying to Rome to visit Pope Alexander IV that Godfrey fell gravely ill and died at Anagni, Italy.
