Saint Madrun

Biography

Saint Madrun, also known as Madryn, Marcelliana, Materiana, Mertheriana, Merthiana, and Modrun, was born around 440 as a princess and the daughter of King Vortimer Fendigaid. She was a woman of great faith and piety from an early age. Madrun was married to Prince Ynyr and became the Queen of Gwent. During a pilgrimage, Madrun received a divine dream in which she was instructed to build a convent in the very spot where she slept. This divine revelation led her to establish a convent, which included the construction of a church. Remarkably, the church that she founded has endured through the ages and stands as a testament to her devotion and obedience to God's will. Tragically, Madrun's husband, Prince Ynyr, passed away, leaving her a widow. Despite this sorrow, Madrun remained steadfast in her faith and embraced her role as a widow with unwavering devotion. She became known for her humility, exemplary piety, and her desire to serve God and her community. Madrun was not only a queen and widow but also a mother. She is known as the mother of Saint Ceidio, who went on to become a respected evangelist. Madrun actively supported and assisted her son in spreading the Gospel message, particularly in the area around Minster in Cornwall. The life of Saint Madrun exemplified the virtues of faith, charity, and service. She faithfully fulfilled her duties as a queen and widow, and she selflessly supported the missionary work of her son. Her representation often includes a crown, symbolizing her royal heritage, as well as widow's weeds, signifying her devoted widowhood. Sometimes, she is depicted as a queen holding a convent and/or church, symbolizing her adherence to God's divine instructions. Saint Madrun is venerated as a saint, although her official canonization predates the formalization of the process. She holds the title of Pre-Congregation saint, a term used to refer to saints who were recognized and venerated before the establishment of the modern canonization process. The feast days associated with Saint Madrun are celebrated on 9 April, 9 June (in Trawsfynydd, Wales), and 19 October on some calendars. She is particularly revered in Trawsfynydd, Wales, where she is recognized as the patron saint. Saint Madrun's remarkable life of faith, devotion, and service continues to inspire and guide believers to this day. Her legacy lives on through the church she founded and the example she set for all who strive to live a life rooted in faith and love for God and others.