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Feast Day: March 2
Saint Cynibild of Laestingaeu, also known as Cynibild of Lastingham, Cynebill, and Cynibil, was born around 622 in Northumbria, England. He was from a noble family and was the brother of renowned saints, Chad and Cedd. Cynibild's spiritual journey began at Lindisfarne, where he received his education under the guidance of the illustrious saints, Aidan and Finan. Deeply influenced by his mentors, he developed a zeal for evangelization and embraced a life dedicated to the service of God. Seeking further spiritual growth, Cynibild traveled to Ireland, known for its monastic tradition and renowned scholars of the faith. His time there enabled him to deepen his knowledge of the Christian faith and gain insights into monastic practices. Upon returning to England, Cynibild followed in the footsteps of his brother Chad and engaged in evangelizing the Anglo-Saxons in Northumbria. In 658, he founded a monastery in Laestingaeu, located in north Yorkshire. This monastery, known today as Lastingham, became a focal point of Christian devotion and a center for monastic life. As a monk in Lastingham, Cynibild dedicated himself further to a life of prayer, contemplation, and service to the community. His monastic foundation flourished under his guidance, attracting both men and women seeking to live out their faith in a dedicated manner. Tragically, in 664, Cynibild fell victim to the devastating plague that ravaged the region. He peacefully passed away, joining the countless faithful who succumbed to the epidemic during that period of history. While much of the knowledge of Saint Cynibild's life has been lost to history, his dedication to the Christian faith and his contribution to the establishment of the Lastingham monastery leave an enduring legacy. Though his representation is not widely known, his devotion to God and his commitment to the monastic life exemplify the virtues valued within the Catholic Church. While no specific patronage is attributed to him, Saint Cynibild of Laestingaeu continues to inspire individuals with his steadfast faith, his zeal for evangelization, and his dedication to the monastic way of life. His sanctity was recognized prior to the establishment of formal canonization processes, and therefore, he is venerated as a saint in the pre-congregation era of the Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on March 2nd, a day to remember and honor his life and service to God.