Saint Willibrord, known as the Apostle of Frisia in the Netherlands, was a missionary archbishop whose life was marked by dedication and fervor for spreading Christianity. Born around 658 in Northumbria, England, he embarked on a remarkable journey of faith and service.
Willibrord’s early education took place at Ripon Monastery under the guidance of St. Wilfrid. Following this, he spent twelve formative years in Ireland, studying at the Abbey of Rathmelsigi, most likely Mellifont in County Louth, under the tutelage of Saints Egbert and Wigbert. During this time, he honed his knowledge and commitment to the missionary cause.
Around the year 690, Willibrord, accompanied by a group of twelve companions, set out for Frisia (Friesland) to evangelize the pagan population. In 693, he made a significant journey to Rome to seek papal approval for his mission. Pope Sergius I (reigned 687-701) wholeheartedly endorsed his efforts. During a subsequent visit to Rome, the Pope consecrated him as the archbishop to the Frisians in 696, establishing his see in Utrecht. His work received crucial support from Pepin of Heristal (reigned 687-714), a Frankish leader.
One of Willibrord’s enduring legacies was the founding of the monastery of Echternach in Luxembourg, which served as a vital center for missionary activities. He also extended his missionary endeavors into Denmark and Upper Friesland, despite facing constant dangers from hostile pagan populations. On one occasion, an enraged pagan attempted to murder him after he tore down an idol.
In 714, Duke Radbod reclaimed the extensive territories that Pepin had secured for Christianity, causing significant setbacks. However, Willibrord did not lose heart. Following Radbod’s death, he resumed his mission with renewed enthusiasm, receiving invaluable assistance from another renowned missionary, St. Boniface.
Saint Willibrord eventually passed away while on retreat at Echternach on November 7. His tireless efforts earned him the title of the Apostle of the Frisians, commemorating his pivotal role in bringing Christianity to the people of Frisia and neighboring regions.
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Saint Willibrord, pray for us!
St. Willibrord, pray for us.
Pray and Pray more for the faithful, Holy Saint.
St Willibrord pray for us
O God, the Saviour of all,
who sent Thy bishop Willibrord as a pilgrim for Christ
to proclaim the Gospel to many peoples
and confirm them in their faith,
grant us, we beseech you,
so to witness to Thy steadfast love by word and deed
that Thy Church may flourish and wax strong in holiness.
Through Christ our Lord.
Matthew 8:24-26
24 And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. 25 And they went and woke him, saying, “Save, Lord; we are perishing.” 26 And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O men of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.
Saints Willibrord and Boniface, pray for us. Grant us patience and faith while we await Christ’s response to this current pagan crisis, knowing that our own Gethsemane and Good Friday must precede Easter Sunday. Darkness and chaos before light and calm. Betrayal reveals itself inevitably. Lord God the Father Almighty, be consoled as fallen angels flee when divine light blinds them. Holy Spirit, reveal all concealed hoaxes, fraud, instigated turmoil, etc. Bring justice first and mercy later. Amen
Saint Willibrord pray for us amen.