Saint Aedan of Ferns

Also known as: Aeddan Foeddog
Aedh-og
Aidan
Aidus
Hugh
Maedoc
Maodhóg
Mo-Aedh-og (=my dear Aedh)
Moedhog
Mogue
Memorial: 31 January
Profile: Son of Sedna, chief of Connaught, and Eithne. A widespread reputation for sanctity brought him potential disciples in his youth; he fled to Kilmuine, Wales to escape them. He became one of Saint David's most faithful disciples. He returned to Ireland in 580 with a band of disciples, including Saint Caillan and settled at Brentrocht, Leinster. Founded 30 churches and several monasteries in that district, the greatest being Ferns in Wexford, built on land given him by Brandubh, King of Leinster. First bishop of Ferns c.598; the episcopal seat of Ferns is now at Enniscorthy, where there is a beautiful cathedral dedicated to Aedan. Miracle worker throughout his life.
Born: c.550 at Inisbrefny, Templeport, County Cavan, Ireland
Died: 31 January 632 at Ferns, Ireland of natural causes
Canonized: Pre-Congregation
Patronage: Ferns, Ireland, diocese of
Wexford, Ireland
Additional Information: Catholic Encyclopedia
Catholic Online
Lives of the Saints, by Father Alban Butler New Catholic Dictionary: Saint Aedan
New Catholic Dictionary: diocese of Ferns, Ireland
Book of Saints, by the Monks of Ramsgate
Our Sunday Visitor's Encyclopedia of Saints, by Matthew Bunson, Margaret Bunson, and Stephen Bunson
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