Saint Iwi

Biography

Saint Iwi, also known as Ivi, Ivy, Iwigius, Ywi, Ywio, or Ywy, was a monk of Lindisfarne Abbey in the 7th century. He was a devoted spiritual student of Saint Cuthbert, one of the most revered figures in early Christianity. Saint Iwi followed the Irish ideal of being an "exile for Christ," which meant he sought to evangelize wherever his ship would land, without knowing its destination. He embarked on this missionary journey, determined to spread the Gospel in whatever location he found himself. As fate would have it, Saint Iwi's journey led him to the shores of Brittany. Embracing his new surroundings, he decided to establish himself as a hermit in this foreign land. Despite the challenges of being in an unfamiliar territory, Saint Iwi dedicated himself to a life of prayer, solitude, and ministering to the people of Brittany. His primary mission became one of miraculous healing, as many sought his intercession and assistance for their ailments and afflictions. His reputation for performing extraordinary healings began to spread far and wide. About 250 years after Saint Iwi's death, a group of Breton monks made their way to Wilton Abbey in southwest England. Carrying with them the relics of Saint Ivi, they intended to continue their journey while safeguarding these sacred objects. However, when they attempted to leave, they discovered that the relics seemed to have found a permanent home at the abbey altar. Despite their best efforts, the monks could not move the relics, and they reluctantly made the decision to leave them behind at Wilton Abbey. Saint Iwi's precise birth year is unknown, but it is believed that he was born in Northumbria, England, during the 7th century. He passed away on October 6, approximately in the year 704, due to natural causes. The relics that were left behind by the Breton monks found a place of honor at Wilton Abbey, becoming a focal point of veneration and devotion for generations to come. Although Saint Iwi's representation remains unspecified, his feast day is celebrated on October 6. Some calendars also commemorate him on March 2, while others observe his feast on October 8. Despite his lack of an officially designated patronage, many individuals turn to Saint Iwi in times of illness or seek his intercession for their own spiritual journeys. While the life and works of Saint Iwi are not extensively documented, his commitment to spreading the Gospel and his extraordinary ministry of healing have left a lasting impact. His ability to find solace and purpose in a foreign land serves as an inspiration to all who face challenges and uncertainties in their own lives. Saint Iwi's example reminds us of the power of faith and the profound influence one can have on the lives of others through their unwavering dedication to God's work.