Saint Cedd

Biography

Saint Chad of Mercia, also known as Chad of Lichfield, was a prominent figure in the early Christian Church in 7th century England. He was born around 620 in Northumbria, England, and was the brother of Saint Cedd and Saint Cynibild. Chad began his spiritual journey as a missionary monk to Ireland, accompanying Saint Egbert. During his time in Ireland, he dedicated himself to the study of Latin and astronomy, acquiring knowledge that would be instrumental in his future endeavors. In 653, Chad was ordained as a priest and soon after became the abbot of Lastingham monastery in Yorkshire, England. Later, he also served as the abbot to Saint Owen. As the leader of these monastic communities, Chad played a significant role in the religious and spiritual development of the monks under his care. However, Chad's life took an unexpected turn when Saint Wilfrid of York was chosen as the Bishop of Lindisfarne. Wilfrid traveled to Gaul for his consecration and remained there for an extended period. During Wilfrid's absence, King Oswiu declared the see vacant and elected Chad as the Bishop of York. Despite feeling unworthy of the position, Chad accepted the role and embraced his new vocation. Chad diligently carried out his duties as the Bishop of York, traveling throughout his diocese on foot and spreading the teachings of Christianity wherever he could. In 666, when Wilfrid returned, Saint Theodore, the Archbishop of Canterbury, declared Chad's consecration invalid and asserted that he must step down and relinquish his position to Wilfrid. In response, Chad humbly accepted the decision and expressed that he had never considered himself worthy of the position in the first place. Theodore, moved by Chad's humility and obedience, decided to consecrate him as the bishop of the Mercians in Lichfield in 669. As Bishop of Lichfield, Chad founded monasteries in various locations, including Lindsey and Barrow-upon-Humber. He dedicated himself to evangelization, traveling and preaching to spread the message of Christ. Chad also focused on reforming monastic life in his diocese, ensuring that it adhered to the ideals of simplicity, discipline, and devotion. One notable accomplishment of Chad was the construction of a cathedral on the site where 1,000 Christians had been martyred by the pagan Mercians. This act not only honored the memory of the martyrs but also served as a symbol of the triumph of Christianity in a previously resistant region. There are several legends associated with Chad's life. One such legend tells of how two of the king's sons were hunting and were led by their prey to Chad's oratory, where they found him immersed in prayer. Deeply impressed by his devotion, they knelt before him, sought his blessing, and subsequently converted to Christianity. In their anger, the pagan King Wulfhere murdered his own sons and pursued Chad, intending to harm him. However, as the king approached Chad's cell, a radiant light emanated from the window, nearly blinding Wulfhere. Frightened by this miraculous manifestation, the king abandoned his plan for revenge. Chad was known for his piety and his strong devotion to prayer. For instance, during storms, he would seek solace in the chapel, praying fervently. He believed that storms were divine reminders of God's power and the impending judgment day, urging people to fear the Lord and seek His mercy. Saint Chad's life came to an end on 2 March 672, after a brief illness, possibly due to the plague. His initial tomb was constructed in the form of a small wooden house. Some of his relics are preserved in the cathedral of Saint Chad in Birmingham, England. Saint Chad of Mercia was canonized as a saint in the Pre-Congregation period, and he is venerated as a patron saint of the Archdiocese of Birmingham, England, as well as the Diocese of Lichfield, England. His feast days are celebrated on 2 March and 4 May (the translation of his relics). The life of Saint Chad of Mercia serves as an example of humility, obedience, and unwavering dedication to spreading the Gospel. His contributions to the growth of Christianity in England, his establishment of monastic communities, and his reform efforts continue to inspire and guide believers to this day.