Saint Kevin of Glendalough

Biography

Saint Kevin of Glendalough, also known as Caoimhghin or Coemgen, was born around 498 in the Fort of the White Fountain in Leinster, Ireland. He was the son of Coemlog and Coemell, belonging to the nobility of Leinster. Kevin's spiritual journey began at a young age when he was baptized by Saint Cronan of Roscrea. At the age of seven, he was placed under the guidance of Saint Petroc of Cornwall for his education. By the time he turned twelve, Kevin decided to live with monks, immersing himself in their way of life. He dedicated himself to studying for the priesthood at Cell na Manach (Killnamanagh) and became a student of Saint Eonagh. Under his guidance, Kevin developed a deep understanding of the teachings of the Catholic faith. Eventually, Kevin was ordained as a priest by Bishop Lugidus. His devotion to prayer and the pursuit of holiness led him to seek a life of solitude and contemplation. Following his ordination, he retreated into a cave at Glendalough, now called Saint Kevin's Bed, where he spent seven years as a hermit. It is said that an angel led him to this ancient tomb, which would become his spiritual refuge. During these years of isolation, Kevin embraced a life of simplicity and self-denial. He wore animal skins and subsisted on the nettles and herbs that were available to him. His entire focus was on prayer and cultivating a profound communion with God. News of Kevin's holiness spread, and people began to seek him out. Many were attracted by his piety and wisdom, and he soon gained followers, including Saint Moling. Encouraged by his growing community, Kevin founded a monastery at Glendalough, bringing back relics from a pilgrimage to Rome. This monastery became the heart of a thriving town, which later evolved into the see city and archdiocese of Dublin. As the founder and abbot of Glendalough, Saint Kevin served as a spiritual guide for several years. However, recognizing that the monastery was well-established and in capable hands, he decided to withdraw and live as a hermit once again. However, after four years, he was persuaded by his monks to return and continue his role as abbot. Saint Kevin's reputation as a holy man extended beyond his own community, and he was sought after by many. King Colman of Ui Faelain entrusted Kevin with the responsibility of raising his son. It is said that Kevin's affinity for animals was evident during this time. Legend tells of him not always being fond of human company but finding solace and companionship in the presence of animals. Numerous miracles and extraordinary events are associated with Saint Kevin. During a drought, he miraculously fed his monks with salmon, brought to him by an otter, a symbol of wisdom. When one of the monks considered using the otter's pelt for gloves, it disappeared and never returned. One Lenten season, while Kevin held his arms outstretched in prayer, a blackbird laid an egg in his hand. He remained motionless until the egg hatched and the baby bird flew away. Another story tells of a cow that would lick Kevin's clothes while he prayed, providing milk equivalent to that of fifty other cows. There are accounts of Saint Kevin's compassion and ability to summon miracles to aid those in need. When King Colman's son required milk, but they had none, Kevin prayed, and a doe arrived to provide nourishment for the baby. However, when the doe was slain by a wolf, Kevin chastised the wolf, and the wolf herself started giving milk. In another instance, a young man suffering from severe epilepsy received a vision that eating an apple would cure him. Although there were no apple trees nearby, Kevin ordered a willow tree to produce apples, and twenty yellow apples appeared on its branches. In his old age, King O'Toole of Glendalough had a beloved pet goose that grew old and weak. He sought out Kevin, hoping that the holy man could restore its youth. Kevin agreed, requesting that in return, he would be gifted with whatever land the goose would fly over. As the goose was unable to fly anymore, O'Toole agreed. When Kevin touched the bird, it became young and flew over the entire valley, marking the land that would become the monastery of Glendalough. On June 3, 618, Saint Kevin passed away at the age of 120, having dedicated his life to prayer, holiness, and the growth of the Catholic faith. His extraordinary deeds and reputation for sanctity led to his canonization in 1903, with his cultus confirmed. Saint Kevin is remembered and venerated as the patron saint of blackbirds, the archdiocese of Dublin, Glendalough, and Ireland. His life serves as an inspiration for those seeking solitude and a deep connection with God. Saint Kevin's legacy lives on through the generations, as his story continues to touch the hearts and minds of believers.