Saint Swithun

Biography

Saint Swithun, also known as Swithin or Svithin, was born around 800 in Wessex, England. As a young man, he was raised in an abbey and developed a deep devotion to God. His piety and dedication to the Church led him to become a priest and eventually the chaplain to Egbert, the King of the West Saxons. Due to his knowledge and virtue, Swithun was chosen to serve as the tutor to Prince Ethelwolf, who would later become King Ethelwolf. Swithun's influence on the young prince was profound, shaping his character and guiding him in his faith. Recognizing his exceptional qualities, the people of Winchester, England, appointed Swithun as their bishop. As the Bishop of Winchester, Swithun took his responsibilities seriously, tirelessly working to spread the teachings of the Church and care for his community. He was known for his compassion and wisdom, offering counsel not only to the king but also to his subjects. His impact was significant, and the people recognized him as a holy man. After his death on July 2, 862, Saint Swithun's relics were initially buried in an outdoor grave. However, in 871, a decision was made to transfer them to a golden shrine in the Winchester Cathedral. Legend has it that during the process of the translation, Swithun expressed his disapproval by making it rain for 40 days. This event became the basis for the patronage of Saint Swithun over the weather. According to an old rhyme, the weather on the festival of his translation, which falls on July 15, indicates the weather for the next forty days. The rhyme goes: Saint Swithun’s day, if thou dost rain, For forty days it will remain; Saint Swithun’s day, if thou be fair, For forty days ’twill rain nae mair. Interestingly, Saint Swithun's shrine and relics were destroyed during the Reformation in the 16th century. However, his memory lived on, and nearly 60 ancient British churches were named in his honor. Saint Swithun's reputation for holiness and the miracles associated with his relics earned him a place of honor in the Catholic Church. Although he was canonized before the formal process of canonization was established, he is considered a saint by Pre-Congregation standards. Saint Swithun is recognized as the patron saint against drought, and he is also revered as the patron of Stavenger, England, and Winchester, England. His feast days are celebrated on July 2 to commemorate his death and on July 15 to remember the translation of his relics to Canterbury in 1006 by Saint Alphege of Winchester. Saint Swithun's life and legacy continue to inspire believers to this day, exemplifying the virtues of faith, wisdom, and humility.