Saint Waltheof of Melrose

Biography

Saint Waltheof of Melrose, also known as Walthen, Waldef, Walden, Waldeve, and Wallevus, was born in England around the year 1100. He belonged to the English nobility and was the second son of Simon, Earl of Huntingdon, and Maud (Matilda), who was the grand-niece of William the Conqueror. Additionally, he was the grandson of Saint Waldef of Northumbria. From a young age, Waltheof felt a strong inclination towards churches and the religious life. After his father's death, he, his mother, and his brother relocated to Scotland, where Maud eventually married King David I. Waltheof became part of the royal court and received his education there. He became a spiritual student of Saint Aelred of Rievaulx, who was the master of the royal household. Deciding to dedicate his life to God, Waltheof left Scotland and joined the Augustinian canons at Nostell Monastery in Yorkshire, England, around the year 1130. His dedication and spiritual growth led him to become the abbot of Kirkham, England, in 1134. In 1140, Waltheof was chosen as the archbishop of York, England. However, his appointment was opposed by King Stephen due to his connections with and sympathy toward Scotland. Consequently, the appointment was prevented from taking place. Following this setback, Waltheof decided to become a Cistercian monk at Wardon in Bedfordshire, England. He attempted to convince some of his brothers to join the Cistercian order as well, but his efforts were unsuccessful. In 1149, Waltheof became the abbot of Melrose Abbey. During his time in this role, he became acquainted with Saint Malachy O'More, an Irish bishop, and assisted him in his extensive travels. Waltheof, along with his step-father King David, also played a significant role in the foundation of monasteries at Cultram and Kinross. In 1154, Waltheof was named the archbishop of Saint Andrews, Scotland. However, he believed himself to be inadequate for this position and expressed his desire to avoid it to his mentor, Saint Aelred. Aelred publicly opposed the appointment on Waltheof's behalf. Saint Waltheof was renowned for his severe self-imposed austerities and his endless kindness towards the poor. He also displayed a gentle and caring approach towards the brothers under his supervision. Throughout his life, he received numerous visions of Christ, particularly during the feasts of Christmas, Passiontide, and Easter. Additionally, he had visions of heaven and hell. Waltheof was recognized for his miracles, including the multiplication of food and the miraculous healing of the sick, particularly the blind. Saint Waltheof of Melrose passed away on August 3, 1160, from natural causes. He was buried at the Cistercian chapter house at Melrose Abbey. In 1207, his body was found incorrupt, but when it was moved again in 1240, it had decayed. Although Saint Waltheof is not currently recognized as the patron saint of any particular cause, his life and miracles continue to inspire those who seek a deeper connection with God.