Feast Days

Monday 5th June, St Boniface, bishop and martyr (c. 675-754), was born at Crediton in Devonshire and educated in monastery schools in England. He went as a missionary to Germany. He founded monasteries in Bavaria, including Fulda in 735.

Tuesday 6th June, St Norbert, 1080-1134, was Archbishop of Magdeburg and founder of the Norbertine Canons. St Jarlath, is said to have been a disciple of St. Enda, and was also taught by St. Benignus. He became abbot bishop of the monastery he founded at Tuam in the sixth century.

Wednesday 7th June, St. Colman of Dromore, spent most of his life in Co. Down. Possibly, he studied under Caelan of Nendrom, Co. Down, and was persuaded by St. MacNissi to settle at Dromore c. 514.

Friday, 9th June, St. Columba (Colum Cille), abbot and missionary. Secondary Patron of Ireland. Born in Co. Donegal in 521 of royal lineage. He founded monasteries in Derry, Durrow, Iona and possibly Kells. He left Ireland and Iona became his principal foundation. From it, missionaries undertook the conversion of Northumbria. Columba is noted for his great love for people and for all living creatures. He died 9th June 597.

Saturday, 10th June, St Ephrem the Syrian, deacon and doctor of the Church, c.306-373, a native of Mesopotamia, and became a monk and deacon near Edessa in modern Turkey. He wrote commentaries on Scripture and several hymns which were included in the liturgy. He defended the faith against heresy and encouraged devotion to Our Lady.