Saint Winnoc of Wormhoult

Biography

Saint Winnoc of Wormhout, also known as Winnoc of Flanders, was born in the 7th century in Wales to noble parents. Some sources suggest that his father was Saint Judicael, adding further prestige to his lineage. However, his family was forced to flee to Brittany to escape the invading Saxons. Raised in Brittany, Winnoc received a thorough education and was deeply influenced by the monastic atmosphere of the region. Inspired by the ascetic life, he decided to dedicate himself to serving God as a monk. He entered the monastery at Sithiu, under the guidance of the renowned abbot, Saint Bertin. Winnoc's faith and dedication to the monastic life were exemplary. He exhibited remarkable humility and took to heart the apostolic precept, "if any would not work, neither should he eat." Consequently, he willingly engaged in manual labor, performing strenuous and unpleasant tasks alongside his fellow monks. His industriousness and willingness to carry out menial duties earned him the respect and admiration of his brothers in the monastery. As Winnoc grew older, he faced physical challenges due to his advanced age. However, his desire to continue serving God remained strong. In his prayers, he fervently sought divine assistance in enabling him to carry out his work. Miraculously, he received help, and he was granted the ability to operate a hand corn mill. With this newly acquired skill, he ground flour for his fellow monks and distributed it to the poor. One day, out of curiosity, another monk decided to spy on Winnoc through a crack in the mill-house door. This act of impertinence resulted in the monk being temporarily struck blind. Realizing his mistake, the monk sought Winnoc's intercession, and through the saint's prayers, his sight was restored. Winnoc's reputation as a holy man and miracle worker grew steadily. His righteousness and devotion attracted many people to the faith, and they sought his guidance and blessings. Moved by the need to expand his missionary efforts further, Winnoc decided to establish a monastery, church, and hospital in Wormhout, Belgium. At Wormhout, Winnoc diligently served as the abbot, overseeing the spiritual and practical needs of his community. His primary objective was to evangelize the surrounding region, bringing the light of Christianity to the local inhabitants. Through his eloquent preaching and compassionate actions, many souls were converted, and the faith flourished. Saint Winnoc's representation often features him depicted as an abbot, accompanied by a crown and scepter lying at his feet. Alternatively, he is portrayed in a state of ecstasy while grinding grain into flour. This representation signifies his deep spiritual connection with God during his humble manual labor. After a life dedicated to holiness and devotion, Saint Winnoc peacefully passed away on 6th November 716 or 717 in Wormhout, Belgium. Initially laid to rest in Wormhout, his relics were later translated to the town of Bergues-Saint-Winnoc in 899. Along the route taken by the monks who carried the relics, numerous miraculous healings were reported, especially from illnesses such as coughs and fevers. Sadly, during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, the monastery at Wormhout was destroyed by fire, resulting in the loss of some of Saint Winnoc's relics. However, devotion to him has persisted, and he has been venerated as a saint even before the formal canonization process began. Saint Winnoc is widely recognized as the patron saint against fevers and whooping cough. Additionally, he is regarded as the patron of millers, symbolizing his connection to the hand corn mill that he operated during his later years. People continue to seek his intercession for healing and protection. The life of Saint Winnoc of Wormhout is an inspiring example of humility, hard work, and unwavering faith in God. His dedication to the monastic life and his tireless efforts to evangelize the region demonstrate his profound love for God and his fellow human beings. As a saint and intercessor, Saint Winnoc continues to inspire and offer hope to those who turn to him in times of need.