Today's Saint (November 7): Willibrord of Frisia

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Willibrord is considered the apostle of Holland. He was born in Yorkshire, England, in 658 and died in 739. He received his education in Ireland, culminating in his ordination to the priesthood.

Most of his work was as a missionary in France, Denmark, Holland and Luxemburg. He provided the catalyst for the future missionary activity in these lands which, over time, led to their conversion. He destroyed pagan idols, freed slave boys and taught them the Christian faith, and built churches and monasteries.

Even though the pagan ruler Radbod of Frisia destroyed many of Willibrord's churches and killed innumerable priests, it only served to embolden Willibrord to evangelize other neighboring lands. Willibrord's preaching and ministry were very effective, due to his devout study of scripture and prayer life.

"Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord: he hath great delight in his commandments." - Psalm 112. (From the day's tract, page F 23, The People's Anglican Missal).

The Day's Propers
Catholic Encyclopedia article

Books Worth Considering
The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church
Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church
The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church
The Oxford Dictionary of Saints (Oxford Paperback Reference)
The Penguin Dictionary of Saints: Third Edition (Dictionary, Penguin)

www.episcopalnet.org