Saint Lawrence Otoole

Biography

Saint Lawrence O'Toole, also known as Laurence O'Toole and Lorcan Ua Tuathail, was born in 1128 in Castledermot, County Kildare, Ireland. He was the son of the chief of Hy Murray. At the age of ten, Lawrence was taken hostage by King Dermot McMurrogh Leinster in 1138. Interestingly, Dermot later married Lawrence's sister, Mor. Lawrence was released from captivity in 1140 at the age of twelve and was entrusted to the care of the Bishop of Glendalough, Ireland. Raised and educated at the monastic school there, he eventually became a monk at Glendalough. His dedication and piety were evident, and in 1153, he was appointed as the abbot of the monastery. Although Lawrence initially declined the bishopric of Glendalough in 1160, citing his unworthiness, he was later ordered to accept the archbishopric of Dublin, Ireland, in 1161. This made him the first native-born Irishman to hold the see. As Archbishop, Saint Lawrence O'Toole worked tirelessly to reform the administration and clerical life in his diocese. He also played a significant role in the restoration and rebuilding of Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin. However, his commitment to his faith extended beyond these efforts. Known for his personal austerity, Lawrence wore a hair shirt under his ecclesiastical robes and observed strict ascetic practices. He would make an annual 40-day retreat in Saint Kevin's cave, never ate meat or drank wine (though he would color his water to resemble wine). In addition to his devotion and asceticism, Saint Lawrence O'Toole showed himself to be a peacemaker and mediator. During the second siege of Dublin in 1170, he acted in this capacity. In 1171, he traveled to Canterbury, England, on diocesan business. While preparing for Mass there, he was attacked by a lunatic who sought to make Lawrence another Saint Thomas Beckett. Though it appeared that he would not survive the severe blow to his head, Saint Lawrence surprised everyone by asking for water. He blessed it, washed his wound, and the bleeding stopped. He then proceeded to celebrate Mass. Saint Lawrence O'Toole also played a significant role in international relations. He negotiated the Treaty of Windsor in 1175, which made the upstart Irish king, Rory O'Connor, a vassal of King Henry II of England. This treaty ended combat between the two sides. Subsequently, he attended the General Lateran Council in Rome, Italy, in 1179 and served as a Papal legate to Ireland. Tragically, Saint Lawrence O'Toole died while traveling with King Henry II. It was a trip taken with the intention of bringing about peace and on behalf of Rory O'Connor. However, he experienced imprisonment and ill-treatment by the king, who had grown tired of what he perceived as meddling priests. Saint Lawrence O'Toole passed away on 14 November 1180 in Eu, in the diocese of Rouen, Normandy, France, of natural causes. He was buried at the abbey church at Eu. Numerous miracles were reported at his tomb, leading to the translation of his relics to a place of honor before the altar. It is worth noting that his heart was removed and returned to Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin, Ireland. This act served as a testament to his significance and the reverence with which he was held. Saint Lawrence O'Toole was canonized by Pope Honorius III in 1225. Today, he is celebrated as the patron saint of the Archdiocese of Dublin, Ireland. His feast day is commemorated on November 14th. In summary, Saint Lawrence O'Toole was a devout and dedicated Archbishop of Dublin who worked tirelessly to reform his diocese. His personal austerity and exemplary piety served as inspiration to many. Known for his peacemaking efforts, he played a role in political negotiations, including the Treaty of Windsor. Despite facing hardships, his dedication to his faith and his people remained steadfast. His life and acts of holiness led to his canonization and the veneration he receives as a Catholic saint.