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Feast Day: July 18
Saint Theneva, also known as Saint Thenaw, was a British princess believed to have lived in the 7th century. Born in the British Isles, she was a member of a noble family and held a prominent position in society. However, her life took a tragic turn when she became pregnant before marriage.
According to historical documents, when Saint Theneva's family discovered her pregnancy, they were overcome with shame and anger. In a heartless act, they threw her from a cliff, hoping to end her life and erase the disgrace she had brought upon the family. Miraculously, she survived the fall unharmed, a testament to her unwavering faith and the divine intervention at play.
After surviving such a harrowing ordeal, Saint Theneva found herself alone and vulnerable, with no home or family to turn to. However, her fortitude and hope were rewarded when she came across an unmanned boat. Recognizing it as a gift from God, she decided to board the boat, unaware of where it would take her.
Guided by an unseen force, the boat sailed across the Firth of Forth until it reached the shores of Culross. Here, Saint Theneva was taken in and cared for by a holy man named Saint Serf, who would later become the foster-father of her son, Saint Kentigern.
Under the guidance and nurturing of Saint Serf, Theneva's son Kentigern grew into a pious and devoted servant of God. Known for his missionary work and his role in spreading Christianity in Scotland, Kentigern would later become the patron saint of Glasgow.
Though Saint Theneva's story is overshadowed by the remarkable life and impact of her son, her resilience and unwavering faith are no less remarkable. Despite facing immense hardship, she emerged as a symbol of hope, forgiveness, and love.
Though the details of her later life remain unknown, the legacy of Saint Theneva remains interwoven with the history of Scotland and the spreading of Christianity within its lands. Her feast day is celebrated on July 18th, a day dedicated to honoring her memory and seeking her intercession.
While Saint Theneva's official canonization status is not recorded, her remarkable story of survival, redemption, and faith continues to inspire and resonate with believers to this day.