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Feast Day: April 4
Saint Tigernach of Clogher, also known as Tigernake, Tierney, Tierry, or Terry, was born in Ireland in the 5th century. He was the son of Dearfraych, the daughter of the Irish king Eochod, and a renowned general named Corbre. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he was baptized by Bishop Saint Conleth of Kildare. As a child, Tigernach was captured by pirates and was taken as a slave to Britain. The British king, impressed by the boy's intelligence and demeanor, placed him in the monastery of Rosnat. It was there that Tigernach's love for God and dedication to a life of prayer and work began to flourish. During his time at Rosnat, Tigernach became close friends with Saint Eoghan, another young monk. The two shared a strong bond and supported each other in their spiritual journey. Tigernach's natural inclination towards monastic life earned him a reputation for his unwavering devotion to God. After spending many years in Britain, Tigernach felt a calling to return to his native Ireland. He returned as a monk and was appointed as the abbot of Cluanois Abbey in Monaghan. His leadership and knowledge of the faith made a significant impact on the community, and he quickly earned the respect and trust of his fellow monks. Tigernach's devoutness did not go unnoticed, and his reputation began to spread throughout the region. His virtuous life and strong faith led to his consecration as the Bishop of Clogher, in present-day County Monaghan, Ireland. As a bishop, Tigernach took on the responsibility of shepherding his flock and guiding them in their spiritual journey. He focused on teaching the word of God, restoring moral order, and fostering a sense of unity among his people. His compassion and wisdom made him a beloved figure in the region, and he became known for his ability to heal both physical and spiritual wounds. Saint Tigernach lived during a time of immense turmoil in Ireland, with various tribal disputes and conflicts. Despite the challenges of his era, he held steadfast to his faith and worked tirelessly to bring peace and harmony to his community. His resilience and determination to spread the gospel earned him the admiration of his contemporaries. Saint Tigernach died on April 4, 549, leaving behind a legacy of holiness and devotion. He was canonized as a saint, though the exact date of his canonization is unknown. Throughout history, Tigernach has been venerated for his selflessness, humility, and unwavering faith. Though there is no specific representation or patronage associated with Saint Tigernach, his life serves as an example of dedication to God and to the service of others. His story reminds us of the power of faith and the importance of loving and serving God in all that we do.