Assicus
Assicus was the first bishop of Elphin, Ireland, and is venerated as the patron saint of the place. He was also a highly skilled artisan metalworker, particularly in brass, copper, and iron, serving as a craftsman for Saint Patrick. Assicus is remembered for his contributions to church furnishings and metalwork, and for his eventual solitary death.
- Feast Day
- April 27
- Century
- 5th century
- Country Or Region
- Ireland
Key Facts
- ›Assicus was the first bishop of Elphin, Ireland.
- ›He was a skilled artisan metalworker, working with brass, copper, and iron.
- ›Assicus made chalices, patens, and metal book-covers for churches founded by Saint Patrick.
- ›He was appointed abbot-bishop of Elphin by Saint Patrick.
- ›Assicus is said to have fled into Donegal due to a lie and died in the wilderness.
- ›His feast day is celebrated on April 27th.
Asicus, Assic, cerd (the wright or goldsmith) of St. Patrick, Patrick's coppersmith, bellfounder
Elphin
About Assicus
Assicus (also known as Asicus or Assic) is venerated as the first bishop of Elphin, Ireland, and is recognized as the patron saint of that diocese. Beyond his ecclesiastical role, Assicus was also a highly skilled artisan metalworker, renowned for his craftsmanship in brass, copper, and iron.
Tradition and Ministry
According to tradition, Assicus was a contemporary and friend of St. Patrick. He is said to have been converted to Christianity by Patrick and to have worked with him in iron. When St. Patrick established an episcopal monastery at Elphin, he appointed Assicus as the abbot-bishop. Assicus's family was of druidic origins, with his uncle Hono being a wealthy and influential druid from whom Patrick reportedly obtained land.
Artisan Contributions
In ancient Ireland, craftsmen held a respected position under Brehon Law. The Book of Armagh describes Assicus as the 'cerd' (wright or goldsmith) of St. Patrick. His artisan skills were applied to the creation of religious artifacts vital for the early Christian church. He crafted chalices, patens, and metal book-covers for the churches established by Patrick. The Tripartite Life of St. Patrick further details his work, stating he made altars, tables, and square bookcases, and specifically mentions three square patens he made in honor of Bishop Patrick, one each for the churches in Armagh, Elphin, and Donough-patrick.
Assicus was also known as an expert bellfounder. The spiritual successors and students of Assicus continued his artistic legacy, founding a school of art within the Diocese of Elphin that produced exquisite examples of Celtic workmanship.
Death and Burial
Archbishop Healy recounts a tradition regarding Assicus's final days. It is said that Assicus fled into Donegal out of shame due to a lie told about him and lived in exile for seven years on the island of Rathlin O'Birne. His monks eventually found him in the mountain glens and attempted to bring him back to Elphin. However, he fell ill on the journey and died with his monks in the wilderness. He was buried in the churchyard of Rath Cunga (now Racoo) in County Donegal. His grave is described as being hidden, in a manner reminiscent of Moses.
Assicus's feast day is observed on April 27th, as noted in the Martyrology of Tallaght.
Identity
There is some historical consideration that Assicus might be the same individual as Tassac and Assam (or Assan), or both.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Assicus?
Assicus was the first bishop of Elphin, Ireland, and is venerated as its patron saint. He was also a highly skilled artisan metalworker who worked with Saint Patrick.
What was Assicus known for as an artisan?
Assicus was renowned as a metalworker, particularly in brass, copper, and iron. He crafted chalices, patens, altars, tables, square bookcases, and metal book-covers for churches founded by Saint Patrick.
What is the tradition surrounding Assicus's death?
According to tradition, Assicus fled into Donegal due to a lie and lived in isolation for seven years. He fell ill while being brought back to Elphin and died in the wilderness, his grave remaining hidden.
When is Assicus's feast day?
Assicus's feast day is celebrated on April 27th, as recorded in the Martyrology of Tallaght.
Was Assicus a friend of Saint Patrick?
Yes, Assicus was a friend of Saint Patrick. He was converted to Christianity by Patrick and worked as his artisan, particularly in iron.
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