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Feast Day: July 17
Saint Frédégand of Kerkelodor, also known as Fregaut, Fridigand, or Frégaud, was a renowned spiritual student of Saint Foillan of Fosses. He lived during the 8th century and is remembered as a missionary monk and later as an abbot at Kerkelodor Abbey, situated near Antwerp in what is now modern-day Belgium. Little is known about Frédégand's early life, including his exact birth date and place of birth. However, it is believed that he was born in Ireland, which was often referred to as the "island of saints and scholars" during that period due to its rich Christian heritage and renowned monastic tradition. Inspired by the examples set by Saint Foillan, Frédégand dedicated his life to the pursuit of spiritual learning and missionary work. He joined Foillan as a student and embraced a life of austerity, study, and devotion. After completing his training under Foillan's guidance, Frédégand embarked on a missionary journey spreading the teachings of Christianity to the people of Flanders, a region that includes modern-day Belgium and parts of the Netherlands and France. His tireless efforts to evangelize earned him considerable respect among the local population. Recognizing Frédégand's exceptional dedication and leadership skills, the authorities of Kerkelodor Abbey elected him as their abbot. Located near Antwerp in Brabant, this monastic community welcomed Frédégand as their leader, entrusting him with the responsibility of guiding the spiritual life of the monks and overseeing the monastery's affairs. As abbot, Frédégand worked towards promoting spiritual discipline, maintaining the rule of St. Benedict, and fostering a deep sense of piety among the monastery's community. He imparted his wisdom and knowledge to the monks under his care, emphasizing the importance of prayer, humility, and the pursuit of holiness. Saint Frédégand lived his life in service to God and his fellow human beings, striving to live out the virtues of the Gospel. He exemplified a life of humility, dedication, and devotion to God and is revered for his missionary efforts in spreading the message of Christianity. Saint Frédégand of Kerkelodor's exact date of death is uncertain, but it is believed to have occurred around the year 740. He passed away in Deurne, a place near Antwerp in Brabant, where he dedicated many years to his spiritual vocation. While Saint Frédégand's canonization status has been attributed to the Pre-Congregation era, meaning it predates the formalized canonization process, he continues to be venerated as a saint. Though not widely recognized as a patron saint for a specific cause or group, his life serves as an inspiration for those seeking a path of dedication to God and a deepened spiritual life.