Adulf
Saint Adulf was an Anglo-Saxon saint about whom very little is known. He is chiefly remembered for his association with Saint Botolph and the tradition that his remains were buried with Botolph's.
- Feast Day
- June 17
- Century
- 7th century
- Country Or Region
- England
Key Facts
- ›Adulf was an Anglo-Saxon saint who died around 680 AD.
- ›He is said to have been the brother of Saint Botolph, though this is disputed by church historian Frederick George Holweck.
- ›A story that Adulf was a bishop of Maastricht is now generally considered to be based on a confusion of names.
- ›It is believed that Adulf's body was buried with Botolph's body when Botolph's remains were disinterred for translation to the new abbey of Thorney.
- ›The remains of both saints were taken to Thorney, where Adulf's relics remained.
- ›The feast day of both Adulf and Botolph is June 17.
Adolph, Adolf, Athwulf, Æthelwulf, Æðelwulf
About Adulf
What is known
Saint Adulf, also known by several other names including Adolph, Adolf, Athwulf, Æthelwulf, or Æðelwulf, was an Anglo-Saxon saint who died around 680 AD. His life is largely obscure, with very little factual information available.
Life and historical context
Tradition holds that Adulf was the brother of the more well-known Saint Botolph. However, this assertion is challenged by church historian Frederick George Holweck. A story suggesting Adulf served as a bishop of Maastricht, originating from Folcard's account of Botolph's life, is now widely considered to be based on a misunderstanding of names and to have no historical basis. Nevertheless, this tradition contributes to Adulf being honored as a bishop.
Relics and veneration
Following the destruction of the monastery at Iken in the Kingdom of East Anglia by Viking raids, a significant event in Adulf's veneration occurred. When Botolph's body was exhumed by the orders of Æthelwold of Winchester for reburial at the new abbey of Thorney, Adulf's body was reportedly buried with it. Due to the inability to distinguish between their bones, the remains of both saints were transferred to Thorney. The relics of Adulf remained at Thorney Abbey.
The feast day for both Saint Adulf and Saint Botolph is observed on June 17.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Adulf?
Saint Adulf was an Anglo-Saxon saint who died around 680 AD. Little is definitively known about his life, but he is often mentioned in connection with Saint Botolph.
Was Saint Adulf the brother of Saint Botolph?
It is traditionally said that Adulf was the brother of Saint Botolph. However, church historian Frederick George Holweck disputes this claim.
Was Saint Adulf a bishop?
There is a story that Adulf was a bishop of Maastricht, but this is generally thought to be a confusion of names and lacks substance. Nevertheless, this tradition explains why he is often honored as a bishop.
What is the story of Saint Adulf's relics?
According to tradition, when Saint Botolph's body was disinterred for translation to Thorney Abbey, Adulf's body was buried with it. As the bones proved inseparable, the remains of both saints were taken to Thorney, where Adulf's relics remained.
When is Saint Adulf's feast day?
The feast day of Saint Adulf, along with Saint Botolph, is celebrated on June 17.
Related Saints
Albert Chmielowski
Albert Chmielowski was a Polish Franciscan tertiary, painter, and disabled veteran of the Uprising of 1863. He is remembered as the founder of the Albertine Brothers and Albertine Sisters, congregations dedicated to serving the homeless and destitute. His life journey transitioned from artistic pursuits to profound religious devotion and service to the poor.
Rainerius
Rainerius was a merchant and musician from Pisa who became a devout Christian after encountering a holy man. He is venerated as the patron saint of Pisa and travellers, and is remembered for his asceticism and miracles.
John Fisher
John Fisher was an English Catholic bishop and cardinal, known for his unwavering opposition to King Henry VIII's separation from the Catholic Church. He is honored as a martyr and saint for refusing to acknowledge the king as Supreme Head of the Church of England and for defending papal supremacy. Fisher was canonized by Pope Pius XI alongside Thomas More.