medieval-religion: Scholarly discussions of medieval religion and culture
Today (1. November) is the feast day of:
All Saints. This feast originated in the eastern church, at first
commemorating "the martyrs of the whole world" on the first Sunday after
Pentecost. In the west, the origin of the feast is usually connected to
the dedication of the Pantheon as the church of St. Mary and the Martyrs on
13. May 610, but it gradually expanded from celebrating only martyrs to
including all saints. The first evidence that the feast was celebrated on
1. November comes from England and Ireland---to replace the pre-Christian
festival of Samhain?
Benignus of Dijon (d. c. 270) Benignus, according to tradition, was a
disciple of Polycarp, martyred in Epagny (Burgundy) in c. 270. Already in
the fifth century his grave attracted many pilgrims, and the monastery of
St-Benigne in Dijon grew up on the spot.
Caesarius of Terracina (d. 300) Caesarius was a deacon, martyred in
Terracina during Diocletian's persecution. His cult spread at an early
age. His relics can be found in Rome and also in St. Georg's Church,
Cologne.
Cadfan (5th cent.) Cadfan was a Breton who migrated to Wales. He
attracted many disciples and founded the monastery of Bardsey Island, as
well as the church of Towyn (Gwynedd).
Sidonius of Mainz (d. c. 568) Sidonius was bishop of Mainz in the
mid-sixth century. He was noted for the care of souls, rebuilt destroyed
churches, and constructed waterworks to protect Mainz from floods.
Licinius (Lezin0 (d. before 610) Licinius was a count of Angers who became
a monk and in c. 590 bishop of Angers. He held his episcopal office until
his death, despite his efforts to resign---his flock refused to let him
abdicate.
Dr. Phyllis G. Jestice
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