Beuno facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saint Beuno |
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|---|---|
St Beuno's church (left) and chapel (right)
at Clynnog in Gwynedd |
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| Abbot | |
| Born | late 6th century Powys |
| Died | 21 April 640 Clynnog Fawr |
| Venerated in | Orthodox Christianity Roman Catholism Anglicanism |
| Canonized | Pre-congregation |
| Major shrine | Clynnog Fawr |
| Feast | 21 April (trad.) 20 April (Cath.) |
| Attributes | Abbot |
| Patronage | sick children; against diseased cattle |
Saint Beuno (died 640) was a very important Welsh abbot and saint from the 7th century. An abbot is the head of a monastery, a place where monks live and pray. People sometimes call him Bono. His special day, called a feast day, is usually celebrated on April 21st. However, in the Roman Catholic Church in Wales, it is celebrated on April 20th.
Contents
What Does His Name Mean?
Saint Beuno's name comes from an old Welsh word. It is thought to mean something like "Knowing Cattle." This suggests a connection to animals or farming.
The Life of Saint Beuno
Beuno was born in a place called Berriew in Powys, Wales. He was the grandson of a prince, which means he came from a royal family. He studied and became a priest at a monastery in Bangor.
After his education, Beuno became a missionary. A missionary is someone who travels to share their faith. He had help from Cadfan, who was the king of Gwynedd.
Later, King Cadfan's son, Cadwallon, caused a problem for Beuno. He tricked Beuno about some land. When Beuno asked for fairness, Cadwallon was not helpful.
But then, Cadwallon's cousin, Gwyddaint, stepped in. He gave his own land at Clynnog Fawr to Beuno. This land was on the Llŷn peninsula. Beuno then built his own monastery there. He lived there until he died peacefully "on the seventh day of Easter" in 640.
Amazing Miracles
Saint Beuno was known for performing many miracles. People believed he could bring seven different people back to life! One of these people was his niece, named Winefride (also known as Gwenffrewi). She was a holy virgin. He also brought back his cousin and student, Aelhaiarn.
Before he died, it is said that Beuno had a "wondrous vision." This means he saw something amazing and holy.
Saint Beuno's Legacy
Today, many churches are named after Saint Beuno. There are eleven churches that bear his name. One of the most famous is at his old monastery in Clynnog Fawr. Another is in Culbone on the coast of Somerset.
Even though his monastery at Clynnog is gone, the small chapel where his grave is located still stands. Near St Asaph, there is also a place called St Beuno's. It used to be a college for priests. Now, it is a special place for spiritual retreats run by the Jesuits.
See also
