Saint Cumine The White

Biography

Saint Cedd, also known as Cedda, Cedde, Ceddus, Ceddi, and Ceadwalla, was born in Northumbria, England, and lived during the 7th century. He hailed from a holy family and was the brother of Saint Chad and Saint Cynibild. Additionally, his brother Caelin also served as a priest. Cedd entered the Benedictine order and became a monk at the famous Lindisfarne monastery in England. There, he studied under the spiritual guidance of Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne, a renowned saint and bishop. Cedd was ordained a priest and dedicated his life to serving God and spreading the Christian faith. In the year 653, King Oswiu of Northumbria, upon the request of convert King Peada of the Middle Angles, sent Cedd along with three other priests on a missionary journey to the Midlands of England. During this mission, he collaborated closely with Saint Diuma, another devout servant of God. Their primary purpose was to evangelize and establish Christianity in the region. Cedd's successful work in the Midlands earned him another important mission. King Sigebert of the East Angles, who had embraced Christianity, requested Cedd's presence as a missionary in Essex. He accepted the call and arrived in Essex to spread the teachings of Christ. Recognizing Cedd's dedication and steadfastness, Saint Finan of Iona consecrated him as the Bishop of the East Saxons. In this role, Cedd continued to establish churches and monasteries, leaving a significant spiritual legacy. Notable among these establishments were the churches and monasteries at Bradwell-on-the-Sea, Lastingham, and Tilbury. As an abbot, he led the religious community in Lastingham with great humility and wisdom. Cedd's commitment to his faith led him to attend the historic Synod of Whitby in 664. At the synod, he served as an interpreter and played a crucial role in facilitating dialogue. It was during this assembly that he wholeheartedly accepted the Roman Easter observance, aligning himself with the decisions made by the council. In his later years, Cedd retired to the monastery at Lastingham in Yorkshire. He spent his remaining days in prayer and contemplation, imparting spiritual wisdom to those around him. Cedd demonstrated a profound devotion to God and lived out the principles he had dedicated his life to. On October 26, 664, Saint Cedd fell victim to the plague and passed away in Lastingham, Yorkshire. He was laid to rest in the local cemetery, but his relics were later relocated to be interred next to the altar in the newly built church at Lastingham. Recognized for his exemplary life and tireless efforts in spreading the gospel, Saint Cedd was canonized as a saint. Although he does not possess a specific patronage, his life serves as an inspiration for all those who seek to live a devout and virtuous life. Saint Cedd is often depicted in art as a bishop holding a chalice and an abbot's staff. He is sometimes shown alongside Saint Chad and Saint Diuma, reflecting their shared dedication to spreading Christianity in Northumbria and beyond. On October 26, his feast day is celebrated, but on some calendars, he is also honored on January 7. As a pre-congregation saint, his canonization predates the formal establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Saint Cedd's life serves as a remarkable example of faith, missionary zeal, and devotion to God. His contributions to the early English Church are deeply cherished and continue to inspire believers to this day.