[1] In 576, an event occurred between him and the Jewish community in Clermont that was recorded by his contemporary Gregory of Tours.

According to Gregory, Avitus had been praying and calling on the Jews in Clermont to convert to Christ.

Later on the Feast of the Ascension, when Avitus was having another procession through the city, a mob of Christians attacked the Jewish synagogue in Clermont and burned it to the ground.

Later, the bishop sent a messenger to the Jews in Clermont, which (according to Gregory's account) said: "I do not compel you by force to confess the Son of God, but nevertheless I preach him and I offer to your hearts the salt of wisdom.

Three days after this message was given, according to Gregory, 500 Jews accepted baptism rather than being forcibly expelled from the city.