Saint Oswald

In the 10th century in England, Oswald was born into a family with strong military ties but found his calling elsewhere, under the guidance of his uncle, the Archbishop of Canterbury. This early influence steered him towards a life of scholarship and piety. Oswald furthered his education in France, where he embraced the Benedictine monastic life.

His ecclesiastical career saw him ascend to the positions of Bishop of Worcester and later, Archbishop of York. In these roles, he was instrumental in founding monasteries and spearheading reforms that would leave a lasting impact on the Church’s approach to scholarship and education. He invited eminent scholars in fields like mathematics and astronomy to the abbeys he founded, fostering an environment of learning and intellectual growth.

Oswald was renowned for his deep piety and his profound love for the impoverished. His final days were spent in the Worcester Cathedral, a place he dearly loved. In the winter of 992, during Lent, he resumed his tradition of washing the feet of 12 poor men daily. On Leap Year Day, February 29, after performing this act of humility for the last time, he passed away, leaving a legacy of sanctity and compassion.

The city mourned his death deeply, and soon after, miracles were reported at his funeral and near his tomb, enhancing his reputation for holiness. A decade later, his remains were moved within the cathedral. His legacy is commemorated annually on February 28, or on February 29 in leap years, marking a life dedicated to faith, learning, and charity.

Photo credit: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons