Saint of the Day: St. Fachanan of Kilfenora

Bishop (Sixth Century)

His life 

+ Fachanan, whose commemoration is celebrated on this day in Ireland, established a monastery and school in Ross Carbery in West Cord. This school became especially known for his study of Sacred Scripture and survived until the ninth century, when it was destroyed by Danish invaders.

+ He later established a monastery in Kilfenora, and he would later serve as that city’s first bishop.

+ Today, the diocese of Kilnefora is part of the Diocese of Galway. 

For prayer and reflection

O Key of David, O royal Power of Israel, controlling at your will the gate of heaven: Come, break down the prison walls of death for those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death; and lead your captive people into freedom.  

Prayer

O God, eternal majesty, whose ineffable Word
the immaculate Virgin received through the message of an Angel
and so became the dwelling-place of divinity,
filled with the light of the Holy Spirit,
grant, we pray, that by her example
we may in humility hold fast to your will.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever. Amen. 

(from The Roman Missal: Collect for December 20)
Saint profiles prepared by Father Silas Henderson, S.D.S.