Saint Fothad

Who is Saint Fothad?

Saint Fothad, also known as Fothad Na Canoine was an Irish monk and saint who lived Fahan-Mura monastery in during the late 8th century. He moved quickly up to the rank of bard. He then became a counsellor to the Ard Righ of the time, Aedh Oirnidh.

He both challenged and supported the king, using his renowned intelligence to write a remonstrance against the King's policy of drafting clergymen, and taking part in his military crusades. One such crusade, against the Leinstermen, had led to a greater veneration of Fothad amongst Irish Catholics. He also edited the "Felire", an encyclopedia of saints compiled by another Irish saint, Saint Aengus.