Ruadhán of Lorrha

Who was Ruadhán of Lorrha?

St. Ruadhán mac Fergusa Birn, also kown as Rowan and Rodan, was an Irish Christian abbot who founded the monastery of Lorrha, near Terryglass. He was known for his prophesies. After his death, he was venerated as a saint and as one of the "Twelve Apostles of Ireland".

The Dictionary of Saints states that Ruadan was born in Leinster, Ireland, became a disciple of St. Finian of Clonard and founded the Abbot of Lothra Monastery in Tipperary. He directed 150 monks. Also, his death date is April 15, 584; not April 5.

He is said to have died at the monastery of Lorrha, 5 April 584. His feast is kept on the anniversary of his death.