Acca of Hexham
Acca of Hexham was an early medieval Northumbrian prelate who served as bishop of Hexham from 709 to 732. He is commemorated as a Christian saint, known for his energy in ruling the diocese, church building, and his accomplishments as a musician and theologian. Bede praised his theological library and his encouragement of students.
- Feast Day
- October 20
- Century
- 8th century
- Country Or Region
- England
Key Facts
- ›Acca served as bishop of Hexham from 709 until 732.
- ›He was a loyal companion to Wilfrid and succeeded him as abbot and bishop.
- ›Acca was an accomplished musician and a learned theologian, with a 'large and most noble' theological library.
- ›He encouraged students and persuaded Stephen of Ripon to write the Life of Saint Wilfrid.
- ›Bede dedicated several important works to Acca, particularly those dealing with Holy Scripture.
- ›He was revered as a saint immediately after his death, with his body translated at least three times.
About Acca of Hexham
Acca of Hexham (c. 660 – 740/742) was a significant early medieval Northumbrian prelate who served as the bishop of Hexham from 709 to 732. He is widely commemorated as a Christian saint.
Life and Historical Context
Born in Northumbria, Acca's early career involved service in the household of Bosa, the future Bishop of York. He later became closely associated with Wilfrid, possibly by 678, accompanying him on his travels. Acca's association with Wilfrid included a stay at Utrecht with Archbishop Willibrord. Upon Wilfrid's return and reinstatement at Hexham, Acca was made abbot of St Andrew's monastery there. During Wilfrid's later years, Acca remained a devoted companion, ultimately succeeding him as abbot and bishop in 709.
Ministry and Contributions
Acca approached his episcopal duties with great energy, overseeing the diocese and church services. He continued the church building and decorating projects initiated by Wilfrid. Acca was recognized for his considerable talents as both a musician and a theologian. Bede described him as a "most experienced cantor, most learned in sacred writings, and thoroughly familiar with the rules of ecclesiastical custom." He played a role in introducing Roman traditions of psalmody to Northumbria by bringing the cantor Maban. Acca's theological library was noted by Bede as "large and most noble." He was also known for his encouragement of students and scholars.
Relationships and Legacy
Acca was instrumental in encouraging Stephen of Ripon (Eddius) to undertake the writing of the "Life of Saint Wilfrid." He also provided Bede with numerous materials for his "Historia ecclesiastica gentis Anglorum," and Bede dedicated several important works, particularly those on Holy Scripture, to him.
Later Life and Veneration
In 732, Acca left his diocese, either by choice or by expulsion, for reasons that remain unknown. Hexham tradition holds that he became bishop of Whithorn in Galloway, Scotland, while other accounts suggest he founded a see at St Andrews or went into exile in Ireland. Acca was buried at Hexham near the east wall of the abbey, with finely carved crosses marking his grave. He was revered as a saint immediately after his death. His body underwent several translations, including in the early 11th century, in 1154, and again in 1240.
Acca's feast day is observed on October 20, with the translation of his relics commemorated on February 19. The only surviving writing attributed to Acca is a letter addressed to Bede.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Acca of Hexham live?
Acca of Hexham lived from approximately 660 until between 740 and 742. He served as bishop of Hexham for over two decades.
What was Acca of Hexham known for?
Acca of Hexham was known for his diligent service as bishop, his work in church building and decoration, and his considerable learning as a musician and theologian. He was also noted for his encouragement of students and scholars.
Who was Acca of Hexham's friend Bede?
Bede was a contemporary scholar and monk who wrote extensively about church history and scripture. Acca was a personal friend of Bede, who dedicated several important works to him, particularly those related to Holy Scripture.
What happened to Acca of Hexham after 732?
In 732, Acca withdrew or was removed from his diocese for reasons that are not clear. Traditions suggest he may have become bishop of Whithorn, founded a see at St Andrews, or gone into exile in Ireland before returning to Hexham.
When is Acca of Hexham's feast day?
Acca of Hexham is commemorated as a saint with a feast day on October 20. The translation of his relics is commemorated on February 19.
Related Saints
Elena Guerra
Elena Guerra was an Italian Catholic religious sister and the founder of the Oblates of the Holy Spirit. She is remembered for her strong advocacy for devotion to the Holy Spirit and her dedication to the education of girls, particularly from China and Africa. Guerra's work led to the establishment of a religious congregation that continues to operate globally.
Maria Bertilla Boscardin
Maria Bertilla Boscardin was an Italian nun and nurse known for her unwavering devotion to duty, particularly in caring for sick children and victims of World War I air raids. She is recognized as a patron saint of the rejected and abused due to her own difficult upbringing and compassionate care for the neglected. Canonized a saint by the Roman Catholic Church, she is remembered for her humble service and profound faith.
Artemius
Artemius was a Syrian general of the Roman Empire who served as dux Aegypti, or imperial prefect of Roman Egypt. He is venerated as a martyr and saint in the Catholic and Orthodox Churches for his steadfastness in the Christian faith under Emperor Julian. Artemius is particularly remembered for his patronage and attributed miracles related to hernias and genitourinary ailments.