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Feast Day: January 10
Saint Dermot of Inis Clothrann, also known as Dermot of Clothrann, Dermot the Just, and by various other names, was a renowned Irish abbot, writer, and preacher. He is recognized as the founder of a monastery on Innis-Closran, an island in Ireland. Saint Dermot was born in the 6th century and lived during a time of great religious fervor in Ireland. Dermot's monastic life began when he entered a religious community as a young man. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to the pursuit of holiness and became known for his deep spirituality and commitment to the teachings of Christ. As he grew in knowledge and wisdom, Dermot's reputation as a wise and learned scholar spread throughout the region. It was through his reputation as a teacher and writer that Saint Dermot came to be the spiritual director of another renowned Irish saint, Saint Kiernan of Clonracnois. Dermot's guidance and mentorship greatly influenced Saint Kiernan's spiritual growth and journey towards sainthood. One of Saint Dermot's significant contributions to the Catholic faith was the establishment of a monastery on Innis-Closran. This island became a place of profound spiritual significance, attracting many disciples and pilgrims seeking to deepen their faith and learn from Dermot's wisdom. Under his guidance, the monastery flourished as a center of learning, prayer, and contemplation. Saint Dermot's dedication to spreading the Gospel led him to embark on a mission of evangelization. As part of this work, he built seven churches on Quaker Island, further extending the reach of the Christian faith throughout Ireland. These churches served as places of worship for the faithful and symbolized the enduring impact of Saint Dermot's ministry. Dermot's life was marked by a deep commitment to justice and fairness. He became known as Dermot the Just due to his advocacy for the oppressed and his unwavering defense of truth. He fearlessly confronted social injustices and worked tirelessly to uplift the marginalized and disadvantaged in society. Saint Dermot lived a long and fruitful life, embodying the virtues of a true servant of God. He passed away peacefully in 542 of natural causes, leaving behind an invaluable legacy of faith, compassion, and scholarly wisdom. While Saint Dermot of Inis Clothrann has not been officially recognized as a patron saint, his life and teachings continue to inspire countless individuals to this day. His feast days are celebrated on the 10th and 18th of January, depending on the calendar used. Although Saint Dermot's literary works and specific representations are not widely known, his impact on the Christian community in Ireland cannot be overstated. His profound spirituality, dedication to justice, and commitment to the growth of the Church make him a beloved figure in the annals of Irish Catholicism.