Saint David of Mynyw is the patron saint of Wales. He was born to Sandde, Prince of Powys, and Non, the daughter of a chieftain from Menevia. The young David grew up to be a priest, being educated at the monastery of Hen Fynyw under the tutorage of St. Paulinus. A vegetarian who ate only bread, herbs, and vegetables and drank only water, David became known as Aquaticus or Dewi Ddyfrwr (the water drinker) in Welsh. Sometimes, as a self-imposed penance, he would stand up to his neck in a cold water lake, reciting Scripture!
Becoming a missionary, David traveled throughout Wales and Britain and even made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, where he was consecrated bishop. He founded 12 monasteries, including Glastonbury and one at Minevia (St. Davids). He was named Archbishop of Wales at the Synod of Brevi, Cardiganshire, in 550. Many miracles are ascribed to St. David, including the resurrection of a dead child and the restoration of sight to a blind man. One of the more famous miracles associated with him is the formation of a hill beneath him as he preached to a large crowd, allowing them to see and hear him more clearly. During this incident, a white dove is said to have landed on his shoulder, and St. David is often so depicted.
It is also said that during a battle against the Saxons, David advised his soldiers to wear leeks in their hats so that they could easily be distinguished from their enemies, which is why the leek is one of the emblems of Wales!
Saint David died on March 1st, 589, at Minevia, when he was over 100 years old. His last words to his monks and the faithful were: "Be joyful, brothers and sisters. Keep your faith, and do the little things you have seen and heard with me." March 1st is St. David's Day, the national day of Wales.
Saint David, you upheld the faith and exemplified Christian perfection. In this changing world, help us to hold fast to the values that bring us eternal life in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Prepared and updated by:
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Penampang, Sabah Malaysia.
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