May 23, 2016

β›ͺ Saint William of Rochester - Pilgrim and Martyr

 Saint William,
Pray for us!
β›ͺ Saint of the Day: May 23

Early Life and Background

Saint William of Rochester, also known as Saint William of Perth, was born in Perth, Scotland, in the 12th century. A baker by trade, William was known for his piety and generosity, regularly giving away a significant portion of his baked goods to the poor. Despite leading a simple life, he was devoted to his faith, often attending daily Mass and actively participating in the sacraments.

Pilgrimage and Martyrdom

Driven by his deep faith, William embarked on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, a journey of spiritual significance for many Christians of his time. During his travels, he was accompanied by a boy named David, whom he had found abandoned and adopted as his son.

While traveling to Canterbury, one of the pilgrimage sites on their way to the Holy Land, William and David reached Rochester, in Kent. Tragically, it was here that William met his martyrdom. His adopted son David, motivated by greed, attacked William and left him for dead. According to tradition, William was struck on the head and then his body was concealed in the nearby woods.

Miraculous Discovery and Canonization

After William's murder, his body was discovered by a woman who had been led to the spot by a vision. The local populace soon learned of the miracle, and William’s reputation as a martyr quickly grew. His body was taken to Rochester Cathedral, where he was buried, and numerous miracles were reported at his tomb.

William's martyrdom and the subsequent miracles attributed to his intercession led to his canonization. He was declared a saint by popular acclamation, and his feast day is celebrated on May 23rd.

Veneration and Legacy

Saint William of Rochester became the patron saint of adopted children and foundlings, reflecting his act of kindness in adopting David. His shrine at Rochester Cathedral became a site of pilgrimage, attracting many who sought his intercession.

Although not widely known today, Saint William's story serves as a poignant reminder of the virtues of charity, piety, and forgiveness. His life and death illustrate the potential for holiness in everyday actions and the profound impact of faith and generosity.
Prayers to Saint William of Rochester
Prayer for Adopted Children

O Glorious Saint William of Rochester,
Patron of adopted children and foundlings,
look kindly upon all those who have been adopted,
bless them with your love, and guide them in their journey.
May they find in their adoptive families the same love and care that you offered.
Intercede for them and protect them always. Amen.

Prayer for Pilgrims
Saint William, faithful pilgrim and martyr,
you embarked on a holy journey with unwavering faith.
We ask for your intercession as we journey through life,
that we may remain steadfast in our faith and courageous in our endeavors.
Guide our steps and help us to trust in God’s divine plan. Amen.

Prayer for Forgiveness
Holy Saint William of Rochester,
you showed great mercy and kindness even to those who betrayed you.
Teach us to forgive those who wrong us and to seek reconciliation and peace.
May we follow your example of love and forgiveness,
drawing closer to the heart of Christ. Amen.
.

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