Rumold having been
consecrated
in
the cathedral of Dublin, by Cuthbert, Arch-
bishop of Canterbury.
the cathedral of Dublin, by Cuthbert, Arch-
bishop of Canterbury.
O'Hanlon - Lives of the Irish Saints - v7
Rumoldi, cap.
i.
, auctore
propagated the Catholic faith in foreign coun-
tries, or who illustrated it by their blood.
See De " Officia Sanctorum Burgo's Propria
Hibernise," pp. 65, 66. Also, the same
entreated the —Gualafer4? they holy
then of Dublin s° Archbishop
exceedingly wealthy
inheritance of the — 4* and another is
—istant from one miles and place twenty-three
thirty-seven miles from the other this was called Guere an Ri. This latter place is supposed to have been the city belonging to our saint's father, and which was named Gueruiana. Some conjectures have been hazarded,46 to show, that St. Rumold was an Anglo-Saxon, who had embraced the monastic state at Mayo, and that having heard of St. Willibrord's progress in Belgium, he went to that country, and thence to be qualified for the mission to Rome, where he was consecrated bishop. 4? Then it was thought, that he returned to Belgium, and thus had been advanced to the See of Mechlin. But he was an Irishman 48 by birth, and a Scot of the original Scotia. The Martyrology of Mechlin brings St. Rumold from that part of Scotia, which is now called Ireland.
We may take it for granted, that much of the story which follows is purely imaginary, but it is to be found in the legend of St. Rumold's Acts. Being without children, David his father felt desirous of having a son, who might inherithisprincipality; however,hismarriagedidnotappeartoaccomplish the king's wishes, for a long time. The pious couple had frequently offered prayers in the churches, and had exercised other works of piety, so that the Almighty would be pleased to grant an heir—, for their large possessions. It
betweenDublinandWexford d
O'Shaughnessys
; village known, lying
is said,
according to St. Rumold's Life that he too would implore the Most Holy Trinity, in their behalf. The prelate prostrated himself in prayer with the king and queen. An angel then appeared to them, saying these words :
Domynsio, pp. 14, 15.
43 See Animadversiones in
utramque prse- cedentem historiam Vita? S. Rumoldi, De
auctoribus, pp. 74 to 78.
44 This was formerly a residence of Guaire
the Hospitable, King of Connaught.
45 This clan claims descent from Guaire
the Hospitable. 46 By Soller.
47 The hypothesis of Soller is mentioned, but it has not been adopted, in the " Gallia Christiana," tomus v. , at Ecclesia Mech- liniensis.
48 The opinion of Rumold having been a
"
Hibernia Dominicana," cap. i. ,
native of Ireland was so universally admitted,
that the learned Pope, Benedict XIV. , in a cal History of our Island. See Rev. Dr.
letter written to the Catholic Bishops of Ire- land, and dated August 15th, 1741, reckons him among the great Irish saints, who either
Lanigan's "Ecclesiastical History of Ire-
land," vol. iii. , chap, xix. , sect, xv. , p. 198, and n. 170, p. 201.
writer's
num. xiv. , p. 22.
49 This mode of spelling is supposed by Rev. Dr. Lani»an to be identical with the
name Gallagher.
s° it must be remarked, according to the
best authorities on Irish history, that at this
period there was no archbishop, or even a diocesan bishop, at Dublin ; but, it is sup- posed, the foreign writer had been led into the error of assigning Gaulafer to this See, through ignorance regarding the Ecclesiasti-
and 2 In powerful. '*
:
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July i.
* Abandon your grieving, for the queen shall bear a son, most fair in body and pleasing to God, and he shall bring many to Christ, from the errors of heathenism. "s1 After this announcement, the queen conceived a son, who was born in due course of time. Her infant was exceedingly beautiful, and Rumold's birth afforded his parents great joy. Gualafer was selected to administer the rite of sa when his
baptism. Yet,
name their child, they felt at a loss to agree upon that matter. Whereupon, the
days,withouttakinganyothernourishment. Thesamedayswereafterwards observed by him, in a course of rigid fasting, at a more advanced period of his life.
At the age of five, his parents resigned him to the charge of Guala- fer, to be instructed in learning and virtue ; 5^ and, under care of this prelate, he remained until his fifteenth year. Then, he was withdrawn by his father to the palace, where he was to be instructed in all princely accomplishments. But, regal pomp and honours seemed to have little attractions for the mind of this holy youth, who endeavoured always to acquire a spirit of most profound humility, and who spent day and night in prayer, while under the paternal
roof. All the temporal possessions he acquired were given to the poor ; he attended to the wants of infirm persons, and of those in prison ; while he
showed the greatest affability and submission to all belonging to his father's household. Thus,hefulfilledinamostperfectmanner,thevariousprecepts ofGod. 55 Whilstengagedinprayer,atalatehourofnight,theAngelofour
" This child has been asked of God and given by him. I there-
prelate said
fore entreat you, prostrate in prayer with me, to offer your prayers devoutly to the Almighty, that as he bestowed upon us this infant, so he may also indi- cateforusasuitablename. " Afterprayer,anangelstoodbeforethebishop, and commanded him to give the name, Rumold, to the boy. This order was instantlyobeyed. 53 Whilstevenyetaninfant,it seemedasifRumoldwere destined by heaven, for the exalted mission and sanctity of his after life. It is related, that by Divine inspiration, he fasted thrice on each week—on the second, fourth, and sixth days ; using only suck, once on the return of these
Lord once appeared to him, and said
:
" O Rumold, child of good disposi-
tions, the Most High hath elected and loved thee, because for his name thou
hast rejected worldly honours and delights. He is about to bestow on
thee a heavenly crown, in place of the temporal one, which is thy due.
Wherefore, thou shalt persevere in what thou hast undertaken, and thou shalt
notfailtofollow,inthefootstepsofourLordJesusChrist. Rejectingpomp
and worldly applause, preserve as a flower thy chastity unsullied. Be humble
towards all, in the name of Christ, bestow alms on the poor and destitute.
Religiously instruct the people given or to be given to thy charge ; treat the
Church of God and its ministers with honour and love. In fine, always pre-
serve yourself free from bad actions, and from impure thoughts ; for, beyond
doubt, the Most High will direct your acts, by enlightening your mind and
in guiding your steps. " Having spoken these words, the angel disappeared.
Immediately Rumold resolved upon leaving all earthly possessions for the sake
ofChristandthe 6 Hesaid "I thee Gospel. s : give
thanks,
O
Almighty God,
5 ' See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyns- sio, cap. n. ,p. 15.
Bishop of Dublin l,y Molnnus, but no particulars are related 01 him, except that he baptized bis Rumold. "—John D'Alton's
53 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn-
16.
''Gualafer is mentioned as
54 " See Harris' Ware, vol. i. ,
Memoii»oftheAi 21
(Dublin/'
55 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn- sio, cap. iv. , pp. 16, 17.
Bishop Chalknor'a "Britannia Sancta," part ii. , July I, p. 2.
sio, cap. iii. , p.
parents
were called to upon,
Bishops and Archbishops of Dublin," p. 305.
July i. ]
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
whohaththusdeignedtoinstructme. Ipraytheethen,throughthegreat- ness of that bounty and love, with which thou hast favoured the human race, when from the highest heaven and from the right hand of thy Father, thou hastdescendedtothisvaleoftears. Here,astrueman,OmostlovingJesus, thou hast wished to endure penury, hunger, thirst and heat ; likewise con- tumely, injury, derision, and, in fine, a most ignominious death, according to the prediction of the Prophets. I pray, that thy bitter passion may not be inefficacious as regards me, thy servant. As thou hast promised, I entreat thee, always to have a care over me, and lead me into the way of thy com- mandments ; that, at length, after this life is over, I may deserve a heavenly
crown, for which I have left an earthly kingdom. " In these pious sentiments, our saint persevered as he grew up, and he was loved by all on account of
his extraordinary virtue. 57
Some time after this occurred, Rumold's parents took counsel with the
magnates of their principality, as we are informed, to devise a suitable matrimonial alliance for their son. When a long time had been spent in these consultations, his parents desired Rumold to be summoned to their presence. During this interval, he had been engaged at prayer, within his oratory. When he attended the summons of his parents and their counsellors, they told him the purpose for which they were assembled, viz. , that they might be able to obtain for him the hand of some lady, distinguished by her illustrious birth. Thus they entertained a hope, that legitimate offspring might succeed to the
inheritance, on the death of Rumold's father.
To these remarks the saint
I entreat do not allude to you,
replied :
parents
magnates,
"
My
honoured
and
this subject. I have renounced for ever this world's vain honours, and woman's
companionship ; for, I have entirely devoted myself to God, my Creator, and
Ihaveresolvedtopreservechastityinthisbody. FortheLordJesus,who
rejected an earthly kingdom, hath commanded me to follow him in poverty, in humility, and in austerity. Forsooth, you may consider, in what manner an earthly kingdom and the blandishments of woman should profit me ;
when, in a short time, I must leave them, having nothing to give, in gratitude for numberless benefits I have received. Wherefore, I beseech you, abandon those designs j for I have determined, while breath remains in this body, to lead a pious, chaste and holy life. " Our saint's mother endeavoured to change his resolution, by saying, that she felt surprised her son set such little value on his principality ; and, the more so, as in his station of life, he could apply himself to every practice of devotion. Rumold replied : although such might be the case, this opinion admitted of some doubt ; for, if a man engaged in much worldly business should lead a blameless life, yet, as a con- sequence, the soul's pious aspirations must necessarily be weakened. Where- fore, he was resolved to adopt a more secure course, by avoiding altogether the allurements of this world. *8 On hearing these remarks, his father remem- bered Gualafer's predictions before Rumold's conception. Moved by them, he felt more inclined to consult for his son's wishes than did his mother. Wherefore, his father left Rumold free to adopt whatever state of life he had resolved on ; notwithstanding his own and his counsellors' previous deter- mination. 59
57 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn- Lect. iv. , p. 65.
sio, cap. v. , pp. 17, 18.
<<
S3 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn-
sio, cap. vi. , pp. 18, 19.
*> See De " Officia Propria Sanc- Burgo's
torum Hibernise," Die Prima Julii, Noct. ii. f Lect. iv. , p. 65.
58
Parentibus
ret. "—De Burgo's "Officia Propria Sane- torum HiberniEe. " Die prima Julii, Noct. ii. ,
Regales Nuptias, et Regnum sibi a
oblatum,
constantissime recusa-
dignities or emoluments.
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July
It appears, however, that Archbishop Gualafer, as he is called, died shortly afterwards ; and, the canons of his cathedral church, according to their cus- tom, assembled together, to elect a successor. But, at this meeting, they were by no means unanimously agreed, as to the object of their choice. Adopting the advice of a religious and wise man, they prayed to ascertain the will of heaven regarding that person, who should be called to discharge the office of bishop. Their prayers were heard, for an Angel sent from Heaven
:
announcedthesewords "TheAlmightyhathheardyourprayers,andalso
hathcommandedmetoindicatethenominationofRumold. Heisanonly son to the Scottish King, and he should be the Archbishop of your unanimous choice. The Eternal God hath designed him for this office, as being humble in spirit, abstemious in his habits, a lover of chastity and of charity, as like- wise one who advances each day in perfection. " These words directed the regards of all towards Rumold; but, he as little desired ecclesiastical as civic
61 These two
Gilmans, author or compiler of
gium Rubne Vallis," belonged to London and to Lincoln. The Codex Tungrensium Canonicorum Regularium has a similar statement. The Irish commentators on the Acta S. Rumoldi are doubtful, however, as to whether such assertion be a mere conjec-
ture, or as resting on some certain autho- rity. See Annotations, &c, nota 6, p. 82.
i. , sect, ii. ,
62
The Fathers of the Council of Nice de-
bishops,
"
cap.
creed, that it should be desirable and that all
the Bishops of the province ought to assist at
the consecration of a newly-elected Bishop ;
r, if this were found to be a great in- convenience, owing to the length of the journey, or because of instant necessity, at least three should assist at such consecration. Such is the statement as found in the Fourth Canon of that Council, quoted by Most Rev. Francis Patrick Kenrick, Bishop of Phila- delphia, and afterwards Archbishop of Bal- timore, in his "Theologia Moralis. " He adds : "Ad episcopatum conferendum ex lege Ecclcsiae ties requiruntur episcopi :
original work from Harris' interpositions. "
. . . Sufficere tamen unum episcopum at valent consecratio, plurimis probatur dis- pensationibus pontificiis vetustis et recentio-
ribus, aliUque vctcrum exempli*. " —
Vol.
iii. ,
60
It is said, that having confirmed his election, they
61
to assist at his consecration. 62 These prelates assented to the requirementsof the canons, and they were received with great honour. 6* These bishops also confirmed
Rumold's election, and, in company with the canons, and a great number of clergy, they approached his father's court, bearing sacred banners. The king was not a little surprised at their approach. He received them, however, with great respect, and he enquired, at the same time, their reason for approaching a worldly prince, with such unwonted demonstrations. The Archbishop of Can-
called upon the Archbishop of Canterbury, and two other Bishops,
6*
hereupon explained
to the
that his son had been elected only
king,
Archbishop of Dublin,6* by the unanimous vote of the canons, and having his
own confirmation of their choice. 66 However circumstantially these particu- lars have been narrated, yet there do not appear to have been bishops in Dublin, prior to the eleventh century.
terbury
according to John Tract xxi. De Ordine,
Hagiolo-
num. 12, p. 273.
63 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn-
sio, cap. vii. , pp. 19, 20.
64 Bishop Burke has a statement concern-
ing St.
Rumold having been consecrated in
the cathedral of Dublin, by Cuthbert, Arch-
bishop of Canterbury. See " Officia Propria Sanctorum Hibernia-," Die prima Julii. In Festo S. Rumoldi. II. Nocturno Lect. iv. ,
p. 65.
65 The Rev. Dr. Lanigan will not allow,
that there were bishops even in Dublin, in
these times when St. Livinus, St. Disibod,
or St. Rumold flourished. He remarks :
" Ware has judiciously omitted these pre-
tended Bishops of Dublin, prior to the
eleventh century ; but Harris has foisted
them into his additions. I must here ob-
serve, that some modern writers are not
sufficiently cautious in distinguishing Ware's
—"
vol. iii. , chap, xix. , sect, xv. , n. 170, p. 200.
Ecclesiastical History of Ireland,"
66
lin have been copied into the Office of the Lateran Breviary, with this sole difference, that instead of archbishop, it makes him bishop.
The words of the Martyrology of Mech-
July i. ]
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
CHAPTER II.
RUMOLD CONSENTS TO ACCEPT THE EPISCOPAL CHARGE AND HE IS DULY CONSECRATED —HIS LABOURS AS A BISHOP—ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IN DUBLIN—AN ANGEL ADMONISHES ST. RUMOLD TO SEEK A MORE DISTANT FIELD FOR HIS ADMINISTRATIONS—HE LEAVES IRELAND FOR ENGLAND, AND THEN VISITS FRANCE—HE TRAVELS TO ROME—HIS INTERVIEW WITH THE POPE— RECOMMENDED TO VISIT BELGIUM AS THE FUTURE SCENE FOR HIS CAREER— MIRACLES—FAVOURABLY RECEIVED AT MECHLIN BY COUNT ADO—BIRTH OF HIS SON LIBERTUS—THE LATTER MIRACULOUSLY RESTORED TO LIFE—RUMOLD COM- MENCES THE ERECTION OF A CELL AT MECHLIN, AND THERE HE BUILDS A CHURCH IN HONOUR OF THE PROTOMARTYR ST. STEPHEN.
The Archbishop and clergy asked the monarch's consent, as we are told, so that he would allow his only son, and the heir of his kingdom, to be conse- crated Bishop, according to the heavenly choice made of him. Already aware of his son's destination, the king assented to the Archbishop's and canons'wishes. Hethankedthem,also,forthehonourtobeconferredupon himself and upon his son. At the same time, he told them, that Rumold was then
engaged at prayer. He brought the prelates with their attendants to that part
of the palace, where our saint had secluded himself. The Archbishop thus
addressedhim "ORumold,inflamedwiththeloveofGod,beforethouwertcon- :
ceived in thy mother's womb, the Almighty hath called thee to be Archbishop over Dublin, and shepherd of his flock; that you may feed Christ's sheep with the sweet pasturage of the Divine word, that you may teach them to worship and reverence God himself, and, moreover, that you may illustrate Christ's Church with your blood. Wherefore, come, joyfully prepare thyself for that state to which the Lord Jesus calls thee, whom thou shalt follow and rever-
ence with love and willingness. For, behold, we have decided, on making you Archbishop of Dublin ; and the whole body of canons, by angelic moni- tion, hath elected thee, as their chief prelate. " On hearing such words, Rumold felt greatly alarmed, saying, he was unworthy of such a dignity. He endeavoured by every possible argument, to exempt himself from undertaking those arduous duties, to which he was called. At last, not wishing to dis- obey the call of Heaven, Rumold humbly submitted to the Archbishop. He was then conducted to the cathedral church. There, according to the Roman ceremonial, he was inaugurated Archbishop, with great pomp and rejoicing.
This being accomplished, the consecrating prelates retired to their respective dioceses ; taking leave of the newly-appointed Archbishop and of his royal parents. These latter even gave thanks to God, for the dignity to which their son had been called ; and they exhorted him to persevere in a work, he had so happily commenced. They entreated him, likewise, to offer up his con- stant prayers for the prosperity of themselves and of their subjects. Taking leave of his parents, Rumold commended them to the care of the Most Holy
1
Trinity. Having
now received a commission for the Divine word, preaching
his first sermon was delivered on the Holy Trinity, and commenced with
"
In the beginning was the word. " He dilated on the mystery of the Incarnation, and he explained the whole Gospel of that beloved disciple to his people. Rumold preached many sermons in addition, and he drew several to a profession of Christianity, from the errors of unbelief. These were probably strangers, who had frequented
2
while besides these, he gained an abundant harvest of souls, by his teaching and
those, words, taken from St. John's Gospel :
Dublin City, at the time, for the sake of commercial or other pursuits ;
Chapter ii. — * See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domynsio, cap. viii. , pp. 20, 21. It is a coinciding circumstance, also, that the
cn f hedral church of Dublin had been for-
nierly dedicated to the Most Holy Trinity.
2
See ibid. , Annotationes, &c, n. 7, p. 83.
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July
miracles. 3 Many who professed the Christian religion, but who lived in a state unworthy of their profession, were moved to penance for their sins.
If we are to credit some of the later writers of St. Patrick's Acts, the Irish Apostle had built a church in Dublin—then a small village—when he is said to have arrived there, on his way to Munster. * This was called after him, and it is stated, also, that he built a mansion, near the present site of Christ's Church. 5 However, such account seems only to rest on unreliable twelfth century traditions. On the old Maps of Ireland by Ptolomy, Eblana is set down as the ancient name for Dublin. 6 When it had an ecclesiastical origin may be questioned ; but, it is doubtful if there were any bishop there, until the Scandinavians, who built walls around it, became converted to Christianity. This must have been long after the time, when St. Rumold is said to have
flourished. The site on which the present Cath—e- dral of Christ Church formerly the church —of the Most Holy Trinity stands is supposed to have been given by Sigtryg, Kingofthe Dublin North-
men, to Donough, Bishop of the Irish and Danes of
that city, about the year
1038. 7 Thisprelatecon- structed the nave and
wings of the cathedral, and at subsequent periods, succeeding Bishops and Archbishops of the See added other construc- tions. Itwasalsoliberally endowed with lands and revenues. The history of this cathedral has never been fully written ; yet, it should furnish materials for a large volume. At different times, it fell into decay, when it underwent many unsightly repairs. In our own day, a large amount of money has been
restoration, but for pur- poses of Protestant worship. * The architectural features of this cathedral before 10 and since have been very fully described. Its historic reminiscences
11
must be gleaned from various sources.
Rumold had been consecrated as bishop when in Ireland, it must have been for some other See than that of Dublin, and in some other place. It is use- less to enquire further into this matter, as no means have been left for us to form any tangible supposition.
» According to some accounts, St. Rumold without any fixed See. -"The Circle of the was only a missionary or a regionary bishop, Seasons," p. 183.
Christ Church Cathedral, West Front, Dublin.
expended on a complete 8
It seems more than probable, if St.
July i. ]
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. n
The saint furnished a living example of holiness to all by his piety and
charity, as likewise by his extraordinary abstinence, constant labours and vigils. His humility and lowliness of spirit reconciled him to the privation of many things, which were necessary for his station ; and, whatever he possessed or was entitled to, he distributed among the poor, in Christ's name. " After he had ruled over his diocese for some time, being engaged at prayer about the middle of the night, and as formerly to St. Joseph/3 so an angel
"
appeared to Rumold, saying :
bishopric, into foreign countries. " It appears, from his Life, that the chiefs of his father's principality had resolved on electing our saint to the throne, in anticipation of the reigning king's death. To him, Rumold was the only lawful heir. Revolving what had been declared by the angel, and considering that our Lord Jesus himself left his heavenly kingdom to descend upon earth,
Depart from thy paternal kingdom and arch-
Rumold
resolved in like manner to obey the Divine will, by leaving his native country.
He thus took up his cross, in a voluntary spirit, and not being compelled
thereto, like Simeon the Cyrenean, as the author of his Life remarks. The better to accomplish his object, our saint left his native country, in a private manner, and without his designs being made known to the people, lest they might seek to detain him, against his will. 14 The saint embarked, it is stated, on board a vessel formed of branches woven together, and covered with hides, the interstices of which were coated with pitches He first sailed for England. He afterwards went to France. There, he found a man who was blind from his birth, and who asked for alms. Rumold replied: "I have neither silver nor gold, nor anything else, which I can give thee ; but, I entreat our Lord Jesus Christ, who of his Divine will opened the eyes of a man born blind, that he also would give thee sight, who hast been deprived of it from thy earliest years. In his name, I say to thee, arise and see, that thou mayest obtain by thy labour food for thy sustenance. " The man was immediately restored to the use of his sight, giving thanks to God and to his servant Rumold ; and, at the same time, he made a vow in presence of the Almighty, and in the name of his Blessed Virgin Mother, that from this time forward, he would serve them, with entire self-abandonment. This miracle induced many pagans, to profess the faith of Christ and to receive baptism. Several were moved, also, to a detestation of
where he suffered much on account of the love he bore our race
;
sin,
and to observe of 16 remained for some practices penance. Having
days
* See the account already given, in the Architecture in Ireland. "
Third Volume of this work, at the 17th of " Much may be found in the " Book of March, Art. i. , in the Life of St. Patrick, Obits and Martyrology of the Cathedral chap. xvii.
Church of the Holy Trinity, commonly 5 See Colgan's Trias Thaumaturga," called Christ Church, Dublin," edited by
10 See Thomas Bell's "
Essay
on Gothic
sio,
cap.
xi. , 23. p.
"
SextaVitaS. Patricii, cap. Ixxi. , p. 91, and nn. 70, 71, 72, p. 112.
6 See Sir James Ware, " De Hibernia, et
Antiquitatibus ejus," cap. x. , pp. 43, 44.
7 See T. Gilbert's " of the John History
City of Dublin," vol. i. , pp. 98, 99.
8 An extensive distiller and citizen of
Dublin, Mr. Roe, expended more than ^100,000 on this undertaking. The architect was Mr. Street.
9 The accompanying illustration represents the great western entrance on Winetavern- street as lately renovated. From a photo- graph of William Laurence, William F. Wakeman has drawn this subject on the wood, engraved by Mrs. Millard.
John Clarke Crosthwaite, A. M. , with an Introduction, by James Henthorn Todd, D. D. Published by the Irish Archaeological
Society, Dublin, 1844, 4to.
I2 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore
Domyn-
sio, cap. ix. , pp. 2l; 22.
I3 See Miss Rosa Mulholland's " Prince
and Saviour : The Story of Jesus simply told
for the Young," p. 29.
I4 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn-
sio, cap. x. , p. 22.
IS These were the coiraghs regarding
which Sir James Ware treats, in his work,
" De Hibernia et Antiquitatibus ejus,"
cap. xviii. , pp. 84 to 86.
6
See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Damyn
i2 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July i.
in France, Rumold entered Upper Germany, where he announced the Gospel truths. Whilst there, he was accosted by a pagan, who was a leper. He thus addressed Rumold: u If thou art a holy man, as they say thou art, give me
" I have no temporal alms to bestow on thee, but I will give thee spiritual favours. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, who cured ten lepers, arise from this place in which thou art ; then, trusting in God, believe in him, and presently thou shalt be healed from thy leprosy. '' The leper arose immediately, and his whole body was relieved from his loathsome disease. Believing in Christ, he was baptized by our saint, who then admonished him to avoid sin for the future. This miracle also furnished occasion for the conversion of many persons. '? Having preached to the
some alms. " Rumold said
:
Rumold
18 which be- lay
the mountains and
tween Germany and Italy. He announced the Gospel to the inhabitants, as
heproceeded. Onhisway,hecametothatplace,whereHannibal,byfire and vinegar, is said to have opened a passage for his soldiers through the Alps, when marching upon Rome. To this latter city, our saint also directed
people,
journeyed among
valleys,
his course. His mind was filled with pious desires, while his body suffered x
much fatigue, during his tiresome progress. 9
According to the Life of our saint,20 St. Rumold arrived in this city,
during the pontificate of Pope Stephen II. , who succeeded Zacharias, whose death took place a. d. 752. " The commentators on our saint's Life are of
opinion, as this Pope Stephen died a few days after his consecration, it must
—en have be
his successor's pontificate—also called Stephen II. by many arrived in Rome and had an
during
writers that our saint ;
that he interview with this latter Pontiff, who presided over Christ's Church, for the term of five years. In the opinion of Ward and Sirin, our saint must then have had this
interview, with Pope Stephen III. , during the year of his accession, 752, or during the following year, before he went into France. What they consider
22
and about the year 755, Stephen accorded him an audience. On being introduced to him, Rumold threw himself at the Pontiff's feet and kissed them with reverence. He then besought the Pope to take the ring of consecration, which he had
received, when he had been consecrated Archbishop of Dublin. Full of
:
admiration, the Pope thus addressed him " Who art thou, son, what is thy
name,andwhereisthatArchiepiscopalSee,thouhastmentioned? " Thesaint replied: "Rumold is my name; I am a native of Scotia ; and the Archbishopric ofwhichIspokeisDublin. " ThePontiff,whohadheardofoursaint'sfame
more probable is, that after this Pope's return from France,
long
before, then said
:
" O son, thou art born legitimate heir to the Scottish
kingdom ; of thee, I had long ago heard a most favourable report ; and I was
told, thou wert divinely collated to that Archbishopric. On this account,
beloved son, seek thy kingdom, and subdue the intractable people of that
country to Christ's sweet yoke ; lest wandering into error they may go astray. Like an nctive shepherd, bring this people to the flock of Christ, that is, to
of Devotion, July 1st. This work, pub- Iished in London, 1869, 4to, is not parcel,
" This happened in 754. See l'Abbe Fleury's "Histoire Ecclesiastique," tome ix. , liv. xliii.
propagated the Catholic faith in foreign coun-
tries, or who illustrated it by their blood.
See De " Officia Sanctorum Burgo's Propria
Hibernise," pp. 65, 66. Also, the same
entreated the —Gualafer4? they holy
then of Dublin s° Archbishop
exceedingly wealthy
inheritance of the — 4* and another is
—istant from one miles and place twenty-three
thirty-seven miles from the other this was called Guere an Ri. This latter place is supposed to have been the city belonging to our saint's father, and which was named Gueruiana. Some conjectures have been hazarded,46 to show, that St. Rumold was an Anglo-Saxon, who had embraced the monastic state at Mayo, and that having heard of St. Willibrord's progress in Belgium, he went to that country, and thence to be qualified for the mission to Rome, where he was consecrated bishop. 4? Then it was thought, that he returned to Belgium, and thus had been advanced to the See of Mechlin. But he was an Irishman 48 by birth, and a Scot of the original Scotia. The Martyrology of Mechlin brings St. Rumold from that part of Scotia, which is now called Ireland.
We may take it for granted, that much of the story which follows is purely imaginary, but it is to be found in the legend of St. Rumold's Acts. Being without children, David his father felt desirous of having a son, who might inherithisprincipality; however,hismarriagedidnotappeartoaccomplish the king's wishes, for a long time. The pious couple had frequently offered prayers in the churches, and had exercised other works of piety, so that the Almighty would be pleased to grant an heir—, for their large possessions. It
betweenDublinandWexford d
O'Shaughnessys
; village known, lying
is said,
according to St. Rumold's Life that he too would implore the Most Holy Trinity, in their behalf. The prelate prostrated himself in prayer with the king and queen. An angel then appeared to them, saying these words :
Domynsio, pp. 14, 15.
43 See Animadversiones in
utramque prse- cedentem historiam Vita? S. Rumoldi, De
auctoribus, pp. 74 to 78.
44 This was formerly a residence of Guaire
the Hospitable, King of Connaught.
45 This clan claims descent from Guaire
the Hospitable. 46 By Soller.
47 The hypothesis of Soller is mentioned, but it has not been adopted, in the " Gallia Christiana," tomus v. , at Ecclesia Mech- liniensis.
48 The opinion of Rumold having been a
"
Hibernia Dominicana," cap. i. ,
native of Ireland was so universally admitted,
that the learned Pope, Benedict XIV. , in a cal History of our Island. See Rev. Dr.
letter written to the Catholic Bishops of Ire- land, and dated August 15th, 1741, reckons him among the great Irish saints, who either
Lanigan's "Ecclesiastical History of Ire-
land," vol. iii. , chap, xix. , sect, xv. , p. 198, and n. 170, p. 201.
writer's
num. xiv. , p. 22.
49 This mode of spelling is supposed by Rev. Dr. Lani»an to be identical with the
name Gallagher.
s° it must be remarked, according to the
best authorities on Irish history, that at this
period there was no archbishop, or even a diocesan bishop, at Dublin ; but, it is sup- posed, the foreign writer had been led into the error of assigning Gaulafer to this See, through ignorance regarding the Ecclesiasti-
and 2 In powerful. '*
:
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July i.
* Abandon your grieving, for the queen shall bear a son, most fair in body and pleasing to God, and he shall bring many to Christ, from the errors of heathenism. "s1 After this announcement, the queen conceived a son, who was born in due course of time. Her infant was exceedingly beautiful, and Rumold's birth afforded his parents great joy. Gualafer was selected to administer the rite of sa when his
baptism. Yet,
name their child, they felt at a loss to agree upon that matter. Whereupon, the
days,withouttakinganyothernourishment. Thesamedayswereafterwards observed by him, in a course of rigid fasting, at a more advanced period of his life.
At the age of five, his parents resigned him to the charge of Guala- fer, to be instructed in learning and virtue ; 5^ and, under care of this prelate, he remained until his fifteenth year. Then, he was withdrawn by his father to the palace, where he was to be instructed in all princely accomplishments. But, regal pomp and honours seemed to have little attractions for the mind of this holy youth, who endeavoured always to acquire a spirit of most profound humility, and who spent day and night in prayer, while under the paternal
roof. All the temporal possessions he acquired were given to the poor ; he attended to the wants of infirm persons, and of those in prison ; while he
showed the greatest affability and submission to all belonging to his father's household. Thus,hefulfilledinamostperfectmanner,thevariousprecepts ofGod. 55 Whilstengagedinprayer,atalatehourofnight,theAngelofour
" This child has been asked of God and given by him. I there-
prelate said
fore entreat you, prostrate in prayer with me, to offer your prayers devoutly to the Almighty, that as he bestowed upon us this infant, so he may also indi- cateforusasuitablename. " Afterprayer,anangelstoodbeforethebishop, and commanded him to give the name, Rumold, to the boy. This order was instantlyobeyed. 53 Whilstevenyetaninfant,it seemedasifRumoldwere destined by heaven, for the exalted mission and sanctity of his after life. It is related, that by Divine inspiration, he fasted thrice on each week—on the second, fourth, and sixth days ; using only suck, once on the return of these
Lord once appeared to him, and said
:
" O Rumold, child of good disposi-
tions, the Most High hath elected and loved thee, because for his name thou
hast rejected worldly honours and delights. He is about to bestow on
thee a heavenly crown, in place of the temporal one, which is thy due.
Wherefore, thou shalt persevere in what thou hast undertaken, and thou shalt
notfailtofollow,inthefootstepsofourLordJesusChrist. Rejectingpomp
and worldly applause, preserve as a flower thy chastity unsullied. Be humble
towards all, in the name of Christ, bestow alms on the poor and destitute.
Religiously instruct the people given or to be given to thy charge ; treat the
Church of God and its ministers with honour and love. In fine, always pre-
serve yourself free from bad actions, and from impure thoughts ; for, beyond
doubt, the Most High will direct your acts, by enlightening your mind and
in guiding your steps. " Having spoken these words, the angel disappeared.
Immediately Rumold resolved upon leaving all earthly possessions for the sake
ofChristandthe 6 Hesaid "I thee Gospel. s : give
thanks,
O
Almighty God,
5 ' See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyns- sio, cap. n. ,p. 15.
Bishop of Dublin l,y Molnnus, but no particulars are related 01 him, except that he baptized bis Rumold. "—John D'Alton's
53 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn-
16.
''Gualafer is mentioned as
54 " See Harris' Ware, vol. i. ,
Memoii»oftheAi 21
(Dublin/'
55 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn- sio, cap. iv. , pp. 16, 17.
Bishop Chalknor'a "Britannia Sancta," part ii. , July I, p. 2.
sio, cap. iii. , p.
parents
were called to upon,
Bishops and Archbishops of Dublin," p. 305.
July i. ]
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
whohaththusdeignedtoinstructme. Ipraytheethen,throughthegreat- ness of that bounty and love, with which thou hast favoured the human race, when from the highest heaven and from the right hand of thy Father, thou hastdescendedtothisvaleoftears. Here,astrueman,OmostlovingJesus, thou hast wished to endure penury, hunger, thirst and heat ; likewise con- tumely, injury, derision, and, in fine, a most ignominious death, according to the prediction of the Prophets. I pray, that thy bitter passion may not be inefficacious as regards me, thy servant. As thou hast promised, I entreat thee, always to have a care over me, and lead me into the way of thy com- mandments ; that, at length, after this life is over, I may deserve a heavenly
crown, for which I have left an earthly kingdom. " In these pious sentiments, our saint persevered as he grew up, and he was loved by all on account of
his extraordinary virtue. 57
Some time after this occurred, Rumold's parents took counsel with the
magnates of their principality, as we are informed, to devise a suitable matrimonial alliance for their son. When a long time had been spent in these consultations, his parents desired Rumold to be summoned to their presence. During this interval, he had been engaged at prayer, within his oratory. When he attended the summons of his parents and their counsellors, they told him the purpose for which they were assembled, viz. , that they might be able to obtain for him the hand of some lady, distinguished by her illustrious birth. Thus they entertained a hope, that legitimate offspring might succeed to the
inheritance, on the death of Rumold's father.
To these remarks the saint
I entreat do not allude to you,
replied :
parents
magnates,
"
My
honoured
and
this subject. I have renounced for ever this world's vain honours, and woman's
companionship ; for, I have entirely devoted myself to God, my Creator, and
Ihaveresolvedtopreservechastityinthisbody. FortheLordJesus,who
rejected an earthly kingdom, hath commanded me to follow him in poverty, in humility, and in austerity. Forsooth, you may consider, in what manner an earthly kingdom and the blandishments of woman should profit me ;
when, in a short time, I must leave them, having nothing to give, in gratitude for numberless benefits I have received. Wherefore, I beseech you, abandon those designs j for I have determined, while breath remains in this body, to lead a pious, chaste and holy life. " Our saint's mother endeavoured to change his resolution, by saying, that she felt surprised her son set such little value on his principality ; and, the more so, as in his station of life, he could apply himself to every practice of devotion. Rumold replied : although such might be the case, this opinion admitted of some doubt ; for, if a man engaged in much worldly business should lead a blameless life, yet, as a con- sequence, the soul's pious aspirations must necessarily be weakened. Where- fore, he was resolved to adopt a more secure course, by avoiding altogether the allurements of this world. *8 On hearing these remarks, his father remem- bered Gualafer's predictions before Rumold's conception. Moved by them, he felt more inclined to consult for his son's wishes than did his mother. Wherefore, his father left Rumold free to adopt whatever state of life he had resolved on ; notwithstanding his own and his counsellors' previous deter- mination. 59
57 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn- Lect. iv. , p. 65.
sio, cap. v. , pp. 17, 18.
<<
S3 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn-
sio, cap. vi. , pp. 18, 19.
*> See De " Officia Propria Sanc- Burgo's
torum Hibernise," Die Prima Julii, Noct. ii. f Lect. iv. , p. 65.
58
Parentibus
ret. "—De Burgo's "Officia Propria Sane- torum HiberniEe. " Die prima Julii, Noct. ii. ,
Regales Nuptias, et Regnum sibi a
oblatum,
constantissime recusa-
dignities or emoluments.
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July
It appears, however, that Archbishop Gualafer, as he is called, died shortly afterwards ; and, the canons of his cathedral church, according to their cus- tom, assembled together, to elect a successor. But, at this meeting, they were by no means unanimously agreed, as to the object of their choice. Adopting the advice of a religious and wise man, they prayed to ascertain the will of heaven regarding that person, who should be called to discharge the office of bishop. Their prayers were heard, for an Angel sent from Heaven
:
announcedthesewords "TheAlmightyhathheardyourprayers,andalso
hathcommandedmetoindicatethenominationofRumold. Heisanonly son to the Scottish King, and he should be the Archbishop of your unanimous choice. The Eternal God hath designed him for this office, as being humble in spirit, abstemious in his habits, a lover of chastity and of charity, as like- wise one who advances each day in perfection. " These words directed the regards of all towards Rumold; but, he as little desired ecclesiastical as civic
61 These two
Gilmans, author or compiler of
gium Rubne Vallis," belonged to London and to Lincoln. The Codex Tungrensium Canonicorum Regularium has a similar statement. The Irish commentators on the Acta S. Rumoldi are doubtful, however, as to whether such assertion be a mere conjec-
ture, or as resting on some certain autho- rity. See Annotations, &c, nota 6, p. 82.
i. , sect, ii. ,
62
The Fathers of the Council of Nice de-
bishops,
"
cap.
creed, that it should be desirable and that all
the Bishops of the province ought to assist at
the consecration of a newly-elected Bishop ;
r, if this were found to be a great in- convenience, owing to the length of the journey, or because of instant necessity, at least three should assist at such consecration. Such is the statement as found in the Fourth Canon of that Council, quoted by Most Rev. Francis Patrick Kenrick, Bishop of Phila- delphia, and afterwards Archbishop of Bal- timore, in his "Theologia Moralis. " He adds : "Ad episcopatum conferendum ex lege Ecclcsiae ties requiruntur episcopi :
original work from Harris' interpositions. "
. . . Sufficere tamen unum episcopum at valent consecratio, plurimis probatur dis- pensationibus pontificiis vetustis et recentio-
ribus, aliUque vctcrum exempli*. " —
Vol.
iii. ,
60
It is said, that having confirmed his election, they
61
to assist at his consecration. 62 These prelates assented to the requirementsof the canons, and they were received with great honour. 6* These bishops also confirmed
Rumold's election, and, in company with the canons, and a great number of clergy, they approached his father's court, bearing sacred banners. The king was not a little surprised at their approach. He received them, however, with great respect, and he enquired, at the same time, their reason for approaching a worldly prince, with such unwonted demonstrations. The Archbishop of Can-
called upon the Archbishop of Canterbury, and two other Bishops,
6*
hereupon explained
to the
that his son had been elected only
king,
Archbishop of Dublin,6* by the unanimous vote of the canons, and having his
own confirmation of their choice. 66 However circumstantially these particu- lars have been narrated, yet there do not appear to have been bishops in Dublin, prior to the eleventh century.
terbury
according to John Tract xxi. De Ordine,
Hagiolo-
num. 12, p. 273.
63 See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domyn-
sio, cap. vii. , pp. 19, 20.
64 Bishop Burke has a statement concern-
ing St.
Rumold having been consecrated in
the cathedral of Dublin, by Cuthbert, Arch-
bishop of Canterbury. See " Officia Propria Sanctorum Hibernia-," Die prima Julii. In Festo S. Rumoldi. II. Nocturno Lect. iv. ,
p. 65.
65 The Rev. Dr. Lanigan will not allow,
that there were bishops even in Dublin, in
these times when St. Livinus, St. Disibod,
or St. Rumold flourished. He remarks :
" Ware has judiciously omitted these pre-
tended Bishops of Dublin, prior to the
eleventh century ; but Harris has foisted
them into his additions. I must here ob-
serve, that some modern writers are not
sufficiently cautious in distinguishing Ware's
—"
vol. iii. , chap, xix. , sect, xv. , n. 170, p. 200.
Ecclesiastical History of Ireland,"
66
lin have been copied into the Office of the Lateran Breviary, with this sole difference, that instead of archbishop, it makes him bishop.
The words of the Martyrology of Mech-
July i. ]
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
CHAPTER II.
RUMOLD CONSENTS TO ACCEPT THE EPISCOPAL CHARGE AND HE IS DULY CONSECRATED —HIS LABOURS AS A BISHOP—ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IN DUBLIN—AN ANGEL ADMONISHES ST. RUMOLD TO SEEK A MORE DISTANT FIELD FOR HIS ADMINISTRATIONS—HE LEAVES IRELAND FOR ENGLAND, AND THEN VISITS FRANCE—HE TRAVELS TO ROME—HIS INTERVIEW WITH THE POPE— RECOMMENDED TO VISIT BELGIUM AS THE FUTURE SCENE FOR HIS CAREER— MIRACLES—FAVOURABLY RECEIVED AT MECHLIN BY COUNT ADO—BIRTH OF HIS SON LIBERTUS—THE LATTER MIRACULOUSLY RESTORED TO LIFE—RUMOLD COM- MENCES THE ERECTION OF A CELL AT MECHLIN, AND THERE HE BUILDS A CHURCH IN HONOUR OF THE PROTOMARTYR ST. STEPHEN.
The Archbishop and clergy asked the monarch's consent, as we are told, so that he would allow his only son, and the heir of his kingdom, to be conse- crated Bishop, according to the heavenly choice made of him. Already aware of his son's destination, the king assented to the Archbishop's and canons'wishes. Hethankedthem,also,forthehonourtobeconferredupon himself and upon his son. At the same time, he told them, that Rumold was then
engaged at prayer. He brought the prelates with their attendants to that part
of the palace, where our saint had secluded himself. The Archbishop thus
addressedhim "ORumold,inflamedwiththeloveofGod,beforethouwertcon- :
ceived in thy mother's womb, the Almighty hath called thee to be Archbishop over Dublin, and shepherd of his flock; that you may feed Christ's sheep with the sweet pasturage of the Divine word, that you may teach them to worship and reverence God himself, and, moreover, that you may illustrate Christ's Church with your blood. Wherefore, come, joyfully prepare thyself for that state to which the Lord Jesus calls thee, whom thou shalt follow and rever-
ence with love and willingness. For, behold, we have decided, on making you Archbishop of Dublin ; and the whole body of canons, by angelic moni- tion, hath elected thee, as their chief prelate. " On hearing such words, Rumold felt greatly alarmed, saying, he was unworthy of such a dignity. He endeavoured by every possible argument, to exempt himself from undertaking those arduous duties, to which he was called. At last, not wishing to dis- obey the call of Heaven, Rumold humbly submitted to the Archbishop. He was then conducted to the cathedral church. There, according to the Roman ceremonial, he was inaugurated Archbishop, with great pomp and rejoicing.
This being accomplished, the consecrating prelates retired to their respective dioceses ; taking leave of the newly-appointed Archbishop and of his royal parents. These latter even gave thanks to God, for the dignity to which their son had been called ; and they exhorted him to persevere in a work, he had so happily commenced. They entreated him, likewise, to offer up his con- stant prayers for the prosperity of themselves and of their subjects. Taking leave of his parents, Rumold commended them to the care of the Most Holy
1
Trinity. Having
now received a commission for the Divine word, preaching
his first sermon was delivered on the Holy Trinity, and commenced with
"
In the beginning was the word. " He dilated on the mystery of the Incarnation, and he explained the whole Gospel of that beloved disciple to his people. Rumold preached many sermons in addition, and he drew several to a profession of Christianity, from the errors of unbelief. These were probably strangers, who had frequented
2
while besides these, he gained an abundant harvest of souls, by his teaching and
those, words, taken from St. John's Gospel :
Dublin City, at the time, for the sake of commercial or other pursuits ;
Chapter ii. — * See Vita S. Rumoldi, auctore Domynsio, cap. viii. , pp. 20, 21. It is a coinciding circumstance, also, that the
cn f hedral church of Dublin had been for-
nierly dedicated to the Most Holy Trinity.
2
See ibid. , Annotationes, &c, n. 7, p. 83.
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July
miracles. 3 Many who professed the Christian religion, but who lived in a state unworthy of their profession, were moved to penance for their sins.
If we are to credit some of the later writers of St. Patrick's Acts, the Irish Apostle had built a church in Dublin—then a small village—when he is said to have arrived there, on his way to Munster. * This was called after him, and it is stated, also, that he built a mansion, near the present site of Christ's Church. 5 However, such account seems only to rest on unreliable twelfth century traditions. On the old Maps of Ireland by Ptolomy, Eblana is set down as the ancient name for Dublin. 6 When it had an ecclesiastical origin may be questioned ; but, it is doubtful if there were any bishop there, until the Scandinavians, who built walls around it, became converted to Christianity. This must have been long after the time, when St. Rumold is said to have
flourished. The site on which the present Cath—e- dral of Christ Church formerly the church —of the Most Holy Trinity stands is supposed to have been given by Sigtryg, Kingofthe Dublin North-
men, to Donough, Bishop of the Irish and Danes of
that city, about the year
1038. 7 Thisprelatecon- structed the nave and
wings of the cathedral, and at subsequent periods, succeeding Bishops and Archbishops of the See added other construc- tions. Itwasalsoliberally endowed with lands and revenues. The history of this cathedral has never been fully written ; yet, it should furnish materials for a large volume. At different times, it fell into decay, when it underwent many unsightly repairs. In our own day, a large amount of money has been
restoration, but for pur- poses of Protestant worship. * The architectural features of this cathedral before 10 and since have been very fully described. Its historic reminiscences
11
must be gleaned from various sources.
Rumold had been consecrated as bishop when in Ireland, it must have been for some other See than that of Dublin, and in some other place. It is use- less to enquire further into this matter, as no means have been left for us to form any tangible supposition.
» According to some accounts, St. Rumold without any fixed See. -"The Circle of the was only a missionary or a regionary bishop, Seasons," p. 183.
Christ Church Cathedral, West Front, Dublin.
expended on a complete 8
It seems more than probable, if St.
July i. ]
LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS. n
The saint furnished a living example of holiness to all by his piety and
charity, as likewise by his extraordinary abstinence, constant labours and vigils. His humility and lowliness of spirit reconciled him to the privation of many things, which were necessary for his station ; and, whatever he possessed or was entitled to, he distributed among the poor, in Christ's name. " After he had ruled over his diocese for some time, being engaged at prayer about the middle of the night, and as formerly to St. Joseph/3 so an angel
"
appeared to Rumold, saying :
bishopric, into foreign countries. " It appears, from his Life, that the chiefs of his father's principality had resolved on electing our saint to the throne, in anticipation of the reigning king's death. To him, Rumold was the only lawful heir. Revolving what had been declared by the angel, and considering that our Lord Jesus himself left his heavenly kingdom to descend upon earth,
Depart from thy paternal kingdom and arch-
Rumold
resolved in like manner to obey the Divine will, by leaving his native country.
He thus took up his cross, in a voluntary spirit, and not being compelled
thereto, like Simeon the Cyrenean, as the author of his Life remarks. The better to accomplish his object, our saint left his native country, in a private manner, and without his designs being made known to the people, lest they might seek to detain him, against his will. 14 The saint embarked, it is stated, on board a vessel formed of branches woven together, and covered with hides, the interstices of which were coated with pitches He first sailed for England. He afterwards went to France. There, he found a man who was blind from his birth, and who asked for alms. Rumold replied: "I have neither silver nor gold, nor anything else, which I can give thee ; but, I entreat our Lord Jesus Christ, who of his Divine will opened the eyes of a man born blind, that he also would give thee sight, who hast been deprived of it from thy earliest years. In his name, I say to thee, arise and see, that thou mayest obtain by thy labour food for thy sustenance. " The man was immediately restored to the use of his sight, giving thanks to God and to his servant Rumold ; and, at the same time, he made a vow in presence of the Almighty, and in the name of his Blessed Virgin Mother, that from this time forward, he would serve them, with entire self-abandonment. This miracle induced many pagans, to profess the faith of Christ and to receive baptism. Several were moved, also, to a detestation of
where he suffered much on account of the love he bore our race
;
sin,
and to observe of 16 remained for some practices penance. Having
days
* See the account already given, in the Architecture in Ireland. "
Third Volume of this work, at the 17th of " Much may be found in the " Book of March, Art. i. , in the Life of St. Patrick, Obits and Martyrology of the Cathedral chap. xvii.
Church of the Holy Trinity, commonly 5 See Colgan's Trias Thaumaturga," called Christ Church, Dublin," edited by
10 See Thomas Bell's "
Essay
on Gothic
sio,
cap.
xi. , 23. p.
"
SextaVitaS. Patricii, cap. Ixxi. , p. 91, and nn. 70, 71, 72, p. 112.
6 See Sir James Ware, " De Hibernia, et
Antiquitatibus ejus," cap. x. , pp. 43, 44.
7 See T. Gilbert's " of the John History
City of Dublin," vol. i. , pp. 98, 99.
8 An extensive distiller and citizen of
Dublin, Mr. Roe, expended more than ^100,000 on this undertaking. The architect was Mr. Street.
9 The accompanying illustration represents the great western entrance on Winetavern- street as lately renovated. From a photo- graph of William Laurence, William F. Wakeman has drawn this subject on the wood, engraved by Mrs. Millard.
John Clarke Crosthwaite, A. M. , with an Introduction, by James Henthorn Todd, D. D. Published by the Irish Archaeological
Society, Dublin, 1844, 4to.
I2 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore
Domyn-
sio, cap. ix. , pp. 2l; 22.
I3 See Miss Rosa Mulholland's " Prince
and Saviour : The Story of Jesus simply told
for the Young," p. 29.
I4 See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Domyn-
sio, cap. x. , p. 22.
IS These were the coiraghs regarding
which Sir James Ware treats, in his work,
" De Hibernia et Antiquitatibus ejus,"
cap. xviii. , pp. 84 to 86.
6
See Vita S. Rumoldi, authore Damyn
i2 LIVES OF THE IRISH SAINTS.
[July i.
in France, Rumold entered Upper Germany, where he announced the Gospel truths. Whilst there, he was accosted by a pagan, who was a leper. He thus addressed Rumold: u If thou art a holy man, as they say thou art, give me
" I have no temporal alms to bestow on thee, but I will give thee spiritual favours. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, who cured ten lepers, arise from this place in which thou art ; then, trusting in God, believe in him, and presently thou shalt be healed from thy leprosy. '' The leper arose immediately, and his whole body was relieved from his loathsome disease. Believing in Christ, he was baptized by our saint, who then admonished him to avoid sin for the future. This miracle also furnished occasion for the conversion of many persons. '? Having preached to the
some alms. " Rumold said
:
Rumold
18 which be- lay
the mountains and
tween Germany and Italy. He announced the Gospel to the inhabitants, as
heproceeded. Onhisway,hecametothatplace,whereHannibal,byfire and vinegar, is said to have opened a passage for his soldiers through the Alps, when marching upon Rome. To this latter city, our saint also directed
people,
journeyed among
valleys,
his course. His mind was filled with pious desires, while his body suffered x
much fatigue, during his tiresome progress. 9
According to the Life of our saint,20 St. Rumold arrived in this city,
during the pontificate of Pope Stephen II. , who succeeded Zacharias, whose death took place a. d. 752. " The commentators on our saint's Life are of
opinion, as this Pope Stephen died a few days after his consecration, it must
—en have be
his successor's pontificate—also called Stephen II. by many arrived in Rome and had an
during
writers that our saint ;
that he interview with this latter Pontiff, who presided over Christ's Church, for the term of five years. In the opinion of Ward and Sirin, our saint must then have had this
interview, with Pope Stephen III. , during the year of his accession, 752, or during the following year, before he went into France. What they consider
22
and about the year 755, Stephen accorded him an audience. On being introduced to him, Rumold threw himself at the Pontiff's feet and kissed them with reverence. He then besought the Pope to take the ring of consecration, which he had
received, when he had been consecrated Archbishop of Dublin. Full of
:
admiration, the Pope thus addressed him " Who art thou, son, what is thy
name,andwhereisthatArchiepiscopalSee,thouhastmentioned? " Thesaint replied: "Rumold is my name; I am a native of Scotia ; and the Archbishopric ofwhichIspokeisDublin. " ThePontiff,whohadheardofoursaint'sfame
more probable is, that after this Pope's return from France,
long
before, then said
:
" O son, thou art born legitimate heir to the Scottish
kingdom ; of thee, I had long ago heard a most favourable report ; and I was
told, thou wert divinely collated to that Archbishopric. On this account,
beloved son, seek thy kingdom, and subdue the intractable people of that
country to Christ's sweet yoke ; lest wandering into error they may go astray. Like an nctive shepherd, bring this people to the flock of Christ, that is, to
of Devotion, July 1st. This work, pub- Iished in London, 1869, 4to, is not parcel,
" This happened in 754. See l'Abbe Fleury's "Histoire Ecclesiastique," tome ix. , liv. xliii.
