St. Bede the Venerable – The Father of English History

ST. BEDE

St. Bede, also known as the Venerable Bede, was an English Benedictine monk, historian, and scholar. He is best known for his work The Ecclesiastical History of the English People, which earned him the title "Father of English History." He was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1899, and his feast day is celebrated on May 25.

St. Bede was born around 672 or 673 AD in the Anglo-Saxon Kingdom of Northumbria, present-day England. At the age of seven, he was sent to the monastery of Wearmouth and later transferred to the monastery of Jarrow, where he spent most of his life. Under the guidance of Abbot Benedict Biscop and later Abbot Ceolfrith, Bede developed a deep love for learning, studying Scripture, theology, history, and science.

Bede was ordained as a deacon at the age of 19 and became a priest at 30. His devotion to scholarly pursuits was unmatched, and he spent his life reading, writing, and teaching. His most famous work, The Ecclesiastical History of the English People, completed in 731, remains one of the most important historical accounts of early England and the spread of Christianity. This work provided detailed information about the conversion of the Anglo-Saxons, the lives of early saints, and the development of the Church in England.

Beyond history, Bede wrote extensively on Scripture, grammar, astronomy, and chronology. His work on the calculation of Easter was widely influential, and he is credited with popularizing the use of the Anno Domini (A.D.) dating system. His deep knowledge and clarity in writing earned him great respect among scholars and the Church alike.

Despite his scholarly achievements, Bede lived a humble monastic life, devoted to prayer and teaching. He never sought personal fame but dedicated his work to the glory of God. His final days were spent translating the Gospel of John into Old English, dictating to his students even as he grew weaker. He passed away on May 26, 735, with his last words being a prayer of gratitude to God.

Bede's legacy lived on through his writings, which were widely copied and studied across medieval Europe. In 1899, Pope Leo XIII declared him a Doctor of the Church, recognizing his immense contributions to theology and history. He remains the only native of Britain to receive this title.

Feast Day

25-5-

Birth Date

--672

Died Date

26-5-735

Canonised Date

--1899

Durham Cathedral, England

Saint Bede, scholar and servant of God, help us to seek wisdom and truth in all that we do. Intercede for us, that we may grow in knowledge and grace, and use our gifts to serve God and others faithfully. May your example inspire us to live with humility and devotion. Amen.
ST. BEDE

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ST. BEDE

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