Saint Ailbhe: Bishop and Missionary of Ireland
Saint Ailbhe is one of the most renowned figures in the history of early Irish Christianity, whose life is surrounded by both historical facts and legends. Known for his role as a bishop and missionary, he played a crucial part in spreading the Gospel in Ireland, particularly in the region of Munster. Below are key facts about his life, other saints celebrated on September 12th, and sources for more information.
Facts about Saint Ailbhe:
1. Birth and Early Life:
o Tradition holds that Saint Ailbhe was left as an infant in the woods and miraculously suckled by a wolf, a symbol of divine protection. This early experience shaped his life and connected him to the spiritual world.
2. Association with Saint Patrick:
o Saint Ailbhe is considered a disciple of Saint Patrick, the apostle of Ireland. His association with Patrick strengthened his mission to spread Christianity throughout Ireland.
3. Missionary Work:
o Ailbhe was a missionary in Ireland, particularly in the province of Munster. He is believed to have been sponsored by King Aengus of Munster, who supported his evangelization efforts. His preaching helped to establish and grow the Christian faith in the region.
4. First Bishop of Emly:
o Ailbhe is celebrated as the first bishop of Emly, in the modern county of Tipperary, Munster. Emly became an important center of Christian learning and faith under his leadership.
5. Patronage:
o Saint Ailbhe is the patron saint of Emly, where his legacy as a bishop and missionary is commemorated. He is also considered one of the twelve apostles of Ireland, a group of saints who were foundational in the Christianization of the island.
6. Miracles and Legends:
o Several legends surround Ailbhe’s life. Besides the famous tale of being suckled by a wolf, one tradition states that a wolf later recognized him in adulthood and approached him for protection. The wolf was spared from hunters, a testament to Ailbhe’s kindness and connection to nature.
7. Death:
o Saint Ailbhe is believed to have died in the mid-6th century, with 526 AD often cited as the year of his passing. His influence persisted through the continued strength of the Christian community he helped build in Munster.
8. Canonization:
o Like many early saints of Ireland, Ailbhe was canonized by the popular acclamation of the faithful rather than through formal processes as we know today. His feast day is celebrated on September 12.
Other Saints Celebrated on September 12:
1. Saint Guy of Anderlecht:
o A Belgian peasant known for his humility and charity, he is the patron saint of laborers.
2. Saint Sacerdos of Lyon:
o A 5th-century bishop of Lyon, known for his pastoral care and leadership of the Church in Gaul.
3. Saint Autonomous:
o A martyr who was a bishop and missionary in Asia Minor, killed for his faith during Roman persecutions.
4. Saint Eanswida:
o An Anglo-Saxon princess and abbess, known for founding the first nunnery in Kent, England.
Sources for More Information:
1. Catholic Online – Saints & Angels
o A comprehensive resource on the lives of saints, including Saint Ailbhe.
2. The Catholic Encyclopedia
o An in-depth historical resource with detailed entries on saints and early Christian figures.

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