St. Aedan of Ferns

St. Aedan was born around 550 at Inisbrefny, County Cavan, Ireland. As a youngster he was held hostage by Aedh Aninmire, the High-King of Ireland. Later Aedan became a student of St. David of Wales at the school of Kilmuine. In 580, Aedan returned home to Ireland. In January 598, Aedan was made the first bishop of Ferns—a part of the kingdom of Leinster. He was given the honorary title of Chief Bishop over the other bishops of Leinster. Aedan was esteemed for his services to Leinster and went on to found thirty churches in County Wexford. He is often known as Mogue which means “my dear Aedh.” The cathedral at Enniscorthy (the episcopal seat of Ferns) is dedicated to St. Aedan. His feast day is January 31.