THE YEAR 600

        This early era of the Catholic Church was resplendent with saints from all sectors of life. 

        There was St. Oswald, son of the King of Northumbris who became a Christian while taking refuge among the Scots.  He defeated the Britons and regained his throne as king. He promoted Christianity in his domain. 

        There was St. Arnulf of Metz, a high official of the Austrasian court, a prominent statesman, military commander and later bishop.  He was chaplain to the royal court and tutor to the future King Dagobert.  Married before he became bishop,  his son was married to the daughter of Pepin.  At the end of his life, he resigned his bishopric and became a hermit. 

        Then there were the five great Celtic monks:  Aidan, Cuthbert, Egbert, Gall and Kilian whose accomplishment was in the missionary field and the establishment of the most excellent schools in Christendom.

(08-05-10)