Saint of the Day: St. John of Beverley

St. John of Beverely was born in the seventh century at Harpman in Yorkshire and studied at the famous school in Canterbury established by St. Theodore, where he was taught by St. Adrian of Canterbury. From there he returned to Yorkshire and became a monk in the double monastery of Whitby, ruled by St. Hilda. He was consecrated Bishop of Hexham and later Archbishop of York.

He was well-known for his eloquent preaching and his teaching skills, specifically, his ability to help others understand the scriptures. He would continue to teach throughout his life. His most famous pupil was the Venerable Bede, whom John ordained to both the diaconate and the priesthood.

John was known for his holiness, his love of the contemplative life, his love for the poor, and his miracles. Due to ill health, John resigned as archbishop of York in 717 and retired to Beverly Abbey, which he had founded, and remained there until his death on May 7, 721. His shrine was for centuries one of the most popular pilgrim centers in England. He was canonized by Pope Benedict IX in 1037.
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