Saint Kentigern

Biography

Saint Kentigern, also known as Kentigern of Glasgow, Kentigern Garthwys, Kentigern Mungo, Kentigern of Elwy, Cantigernus, Chentingerno, Cyndeyrn, Kentigernus, Kintigern, Mahoe, Mochaoi, Mochua, Mungho, and Mungo, was a highly revered Catholic saint. He was born in approximately 518 in Culross, Fife, Scotland. Kentigern was the grandson of the British prince Lothus and the son of Saint Theneva. From an early age, Kentigern showed signs of exceptional holiness and devotion. He became a hermit and later joined a monastery, where he embraced a life of monkhood. His reputation as a holy man and missionary reached the Strathclyde Britons, residing in the region of modern-day Glasgow. In the year 540, Kentigern began his mission in Cathures, where he served as a teacher and spiritual leader for thirteen years, living a life of great austerity. In 553, an anti-Christian uprising occurred in the local pagan community, leading the saint to be exiled. Kentigern sought refuge in Menevia, Wales, and stayed with another renowned saint, David of Wales. During his stay, Kentigern established a monastery at Llanelwy, becoming its first abbot. After some years, around 573, Kentigern returned to Scotland, continuing his evangelization work in Galloway and Cumberland. His impactful missionary efforts brought numerous people to the Christian faith. In 581, the saint finally returned to Glasgow, the area he had previously served, to lead and guide the people there. For the remaining 22 years of his life, Kentigern dedicated himself to the spiritual welfare of the people of Glasgow and the surrounding regions. Saint Kentigern's influence and significance extended beyond Scotland. He is known as the Apostle to northwest England and southwest Scotland. His tireless efforts in preaching the Gospel and establishing monastic communities contributed to the growth of the Catholic Church in those areas. Glasgow holds a special place in the life of Saint Kentigern. The city's Coat of Arms bears symbols that represent various miracles associated with him. The Bird symbolizes a miraculous event where Saint Kentigern restored a pet robin owned by Saint Serf to life, which had been mistakenly killed by other monks. The Fish signifies a miraculous catch made by Saint Kentigern in the Clyde River, where the ring belonging to the Queen of Cadzow was discovered within the fish, clearing her name of suspicion. The Bell may have been given to Kentigern by the Pope and was used at funerals, while the Tree represents a childhood incident where Kentigern reignited a sacred fire using frozen branches from a hazel tree. Saint Kentigern died on January 13, 603, in Glasgow, Scotland, from natural causes. His relics are currently housed in the crypt of the Kentigern Cathedral in Glasgow. Although he was never officially canonized under the pre-congregation era, Saint Kentigern is venerated as a recognized saint in the Catholic tradition. Saint Kentigern is honored as the patron saint of Glasgow, Scotland, as well as the patron saint of salmon. His feast day is celebrated on January 13th each year. His story as a missionary, hermit, and holy leader serves as an inspiration to Catholics worldwide, reflecting his unwavering faith and dedication to spreading Christianity throughout the regions he served.