Saint Mawes

Biography

Saint Mawes, also known as Mandé, Maodez, Maudé, Maudet, Maudeto, Maudetus, Maudez, Maugan, Maw, Mawe, Mawgan, and Modez, was a hermit who lived in an area of Cornwall, England. Today, this area is commemorated by a village named Saint Mawes or Lannvowsedh in Cornish. Little is known about the early life of Saint Mawes. He was believed to have been born in Wales and later emigrated to Brittany, where he laid the foundations of a monastery on an island now known as Maudez. In order to build the monastery, Saint Mawes had to drive out snakes and vermin from the island. It is said that he performed miracles during this process, showing his power over nature. During his time in Brittany, Saint Mawes collaborated closely with two other saints, Saint Budoc of Brittany and Saint Tudwal. Together, they founded the monastery and worked passionately to spread the teachings of the Catholic faith. A nearby village, Lanmodez, is named in honor of Saint Mawes, reflecting his significant influence in the region. Over 60 churches in the area have also been dedicated to him, demonstrating his lasting impact on the religious landscape. Saint Mawes is often represented as a bishop or a schoolmaster, emphasizing his role as a teacher and spiritual leader. He was known for his deep devotion to God and his commitment to spreading the Gospel message. Saint Mawes passed away in the 6th century of natural causes. In the 9th century, his relics were transferred to Bourges, France, and later to Paris, during a time of Norman invasions. However, the relics were eventually returned to Brittany and distributed among nine different churches. This widespread distribution of relics further solidified Saint Mawes' veneration and devotion across the region. Saint Mawes has been recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church, although his canonization occurred before the official process of canonization was established. Therefore, he is considered a pre-congregation saint, with his holiness and sanctity recognized through popular devotion and the dedication of numerous churches in his honor. Saint Mawes is revered as the patron saint against insects, snakes, and worms. Many faithful individuals seek his intercession when facing these particular challenges. In summary, Saint Mawes, a Welsh-born hermit, relocated to Cornwall, England, and eventually settled in Brittany, France, where he played a crucial role in the establishment of a monastery on the island of Maudez. His dedication to the Catholic faith, his ability to drive out snakes and vermin, and his collaboration with other saints contributed to his veneration and the subsequent dedication of numerous churches to him. He is celebrated as a bishop and schoolmaster, and his relics have been widely distributed among several churches. Saint Mawes is revered as a patron against insects, snakes, and worms, and his feast day is celebrated on November 18th, previously being observed on May 17th.