*We highlight these Saints to inspire our students and contribute to their growth in Catholic education by fostering understanding and appreciation for Catholic values and teachings. We encourage parents to share the stories of these Saints with their children to deepen their spirituality and motivate them to live their faith with conviction, following the examples of these admired role models.*
Saint Aidan, also known as Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne, is a prominent Irish missionary and monk during the 7th century. He played a crucial role in the Christianization of Northumbria, a region in modern-day England. His life and work are celebrated as a significant chapter in the history of Catholicism in the British Isles. Saint Aidan is special to our community because of St. Aidan Catholic School, located in Williston Park, NY.
Aidan was born in Ireland in the early 6th century and joined a the monastery in Iona. This monastery was founded by Saint Columba, and is an important center of Irish Christianity. The monastery at Iona followed the Celtic Christian tradition, characterized by its emphasis on simplicity, asceticism, and a deep connection to nature. Aidan embraced these ideals during his time at Iona, and they would later shape his missionary work.
“Leave me alone with God as much as may be. As the tide draws the waters close in upon the shore, make me an island, set apart, alone with you, God, holy to you. Then with the turning of the tide prepare me to carry your presence to the busy world beyond, the world that rushes in on me till the waters come again and fold me back to you.”
Prayer of St. Aidan
In 635 AD, King Oswald of Northumbria, requested that monks from Iona be sent to help convert his people to Christianity. Saint Aidan was consecrated and chosen for this mission. King Oswald provided him with the island of Lindisfarne as a base for his missionary activities.
Aidan’s approach to spreading Christianity was characterized by his humility, kindness, and simplicity. He focused on building strong relationships with the local people. He learned their language and customs and provided for their material needs as well as their spiritual ones. He was known for his acts of charity and his care for the poor.
Aidan established a monastery on Lindisfarne, which became a center for Christian learning and evangelism. He trained local clergy and monks, including Saint Cuthbert, who would later become a prominent figure in the Northumbrian church.
A significant aspect of Saint Aidan’s ministry was his use of the Irish Celtic tradition. This helped him reach and understand the tribal and rural communities of Northumbria. This approach contrasted with the more structured Roman Catholic tradition that was also present in the region, but didn’t reach the people.
One day, Aidan was praying in his monastery when an army invaded the nearby town of Bamburgh and set the city on fire. At once, he began to pray for the town and all who dwelt inside. Suddenly, the wind abruptly changed and sent the flames and smoke away from the city. For this reason, Aidan is known as the patron saint of firefighters.
Saint Aidan’s influence in Northumbria and beyond is profound. He is known for his personal holiness and his dedication to the spiritual well-being of the people he served. His missionary efforts contributed to the conversion of many in Northumbria to Christianity. The Catholic church in the region continued to grow after his death.
Aidan died on August 31, 651 AD. He is one of the key figures in the early history of Christianity in England, and Lindisfarne became a significant religious and cultural center in the centuries that followed. Aidan’s life and work continue to inspire Catholics today in simplicity, compassion, and a deep connection to the communities they serve.
FAMILY ACTIVITY: St. Aidan loved the poor—your kids can create cards or care packages for homeless shelters! A more light-hearted way to celebrate St. Aidan’s feast day with a traditional Irish meal—irish soda bread, beef stew, and colcannon or champ (mashed potatoes). It will be a fun experience for your kids to try new foods in honor of this great saint!