Saint Finbar, often distinguished by his remarkably light hair, earned the nickname Fionnbharr, meaning “white hair” in Gaelic. Born to Amergin, an artisan, and a noblewoman from the Irish royal court, he received his education at the esteemed Kilmacahil monastery in Kilkenny, Ireland.

Known for his devotion and spiritual journeys, St. Finbar embarked on multiple pilgrimages to Rome. On one such journey, he had the privilege of visiting the revered Saint David of Wales. With a fervor to spread the word, he preached extensively across southern Ireland, and there are accounts suggesting he might have traveled to Scotland too.

Finding solace in solitude, St. Finbar lived as a hermit on two occasions: once on a tiny island in Lough Eiroe and later at Gougane Barra. Demonstrating his commitment to education and spiritual guidance, he established a school at Eirce.

Perhaps one of his most enduring legacies is the monastery he founded on the River Lee. This sacred establishment would over time evolve into the city known today as Cork, Ireland. Honoring his contributions, the city reveres St. Finbar as its patron saint and recognizes him as its inaugural bishop.

Mysticism surrounds St. Finbar, with many extraordinary miracles ascribed to him. One of the most enchanting legends claims that after his passing, the sun refused to set for a full two weeks, casting a perpetual light over the lands he so dearly loved.

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16 COMMENTS

  1. St. Finbar, saint of the land of my Grandfather, please be with my family today. Please work with those on my husband’s case. We pray the case is settled in our favor and our family can remain intact. AMEN

  2. Lord I unite my prayers with Susan, You are the God of Truth and Justiice, in Your Mercy and Graciousness I pray that through St. Finbar grant the blessing and favor she’s asking for and may this give greater glory to Your Most Holy Name, and through the intercession of the Blessed Mother, we ask this in the Name of Jesus. AMEN

  3. Please bring my cynical, irritating usband a need of church, heal his mental trouble of having g had a stroke, be a good husband, and a Christian farher with a good marriage. Save our home, heal my autistic son, save our marriage please .

  5. Lord Jesus meek and humble of Hearts helper of the helpless i unite my intentions with the ones already mentioned ,Come to the aid of your sons and daughters and grant their lawful heart desires through the intercession of St. Finbar.Our Lady Queen of all Hearts pray for us.

  6. Lord You are the Creator and Master of all, I unitmyself with those above, please help us in our issues and situations that all may endhappily and we ask Our Blessed Mother to please unit Her prayers with ours – In Jesus name we pray Thank You – Amen

  14. Ecce Crucem Domini!
    Fugite partes adversae!
    Vicit Leo de tribu Juda,
    Radix David! Alleluia!

    Saint Finbar, pray for us. Especially for those who live in Ireland, near the River Lee, in the county and city of Cork. Please use your heroic virtue to reverse the progress of the evil one in that faithful but floundering country, as so many are currently, and restore souls to Christ Crucified through many fervent conversions. Bring miracles to the unbelievers. Holy Mary, help the helpless. Amen.

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