St. Aidan was born in Ireland in the year 590. He received his education under the guidance of St. Senan and became a Monk at a young age in a Monastery located on the Island of Iona. When the Christian King of Northumbria, St. Oswald, asked for help from the Monastery of Iona to spread Christianity among the Anglo-Saxon pagans, St. Aidan was chosen as the Bishop. Although not the first to attempt the task of converting the Anglo-Saxon pagans, due to his inspirational qualities, he was warmly welcomed by them. St. Aidan would often be seen talking to people, rich and poor alike, spreading his message through personal engagement rather than through force. St. Aidan was also deeply committed to acts of charity. He used his position to aid those in poverty, often using the resources of the monastery to help the needy. Aidan's reputation for kindness and his dedication to teaching and helping others led to an increase in Christian converts during his time. St. Aidan was renowned for his knowledge of the Bible, eloquent preaching, distaste for pomp, kindness to the poor, and the miracles attributed to him. He inspired many religious men and women to follow his example and fast on Wednesdays and Fridays until the ninth hour. He founded Lindisfarne Monastery, which became known as the English Iona and was recognized as a center of excellence for training and missionary work in Northern England. St. Aidan passed away on the 31st of August, 651. He is often referred to as the Apostle of Northumbria. He is the Patron Saint of Northumbria and firefighters.
St. Aidan of Lindisfarne, pray that we may be blessed with a heart of compassion and a desire to help those who don't know about Jesus.
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love
(Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
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