Carthage the Elder
Saint Carthage the Elder was an Irish bishop and abbot in the sixth century, primarily known as a disciple and successor of Ciaran of Saighir. He is also recognized as the tutor and fosterer of the more famous Saint Carthage of Lismore. His penitential pilgrimage and subsequent founding of monasteries mark his significant contributions to Irish monasticism.
- Feast Day
- March 5
- Century
- 6th century
- Country Or Region
- Ireland
Key Facts
- ›He was an Irish bishop and abbot in the sixth century.
- ›His feast day is March 5.
- ›He was a disciple and successor of Ciaran of Saighir.
- ›He tutored and fostered Saint Carthage of Lismore.
- ›He was of the Eóganacht Chaisil and likely grandson of Óengus mac Nad Froích.
- ›He founded the monastery of Druim Fertain and another at Lough Sheelin.
About Carthage the Elder
Saint Carthage the Elder
Saint Carthage the Elder, also known as Carthach, was an Irish bishop and abbot of significant influence in the sixth century. His life and ministry are primarily recorded through their connection to other prominent Irish saints and ecclesiastical foundations.
Life and Ministry
He is chiefly remembered as a disciple and successor to Saint Ciaran of Saighir. Furthermore, he served as the tutor and fosterer of the more widely known Saint Carthage of Lismore (also called Saint Mochuda). Carthage the Elder's lineage is traced to the Eóganacht Chaisil, being the son or, more probably, the grandson of Óengus mac Nad Froích, who was baptized by Saint Patrick.
Following the guidance of St. Ciaran, Carthage embarked on a penitential pilgrimage that lasted seven years, during which he traveled to Gaul and Rome. Upon completing his penance, he was reinstated into the religious brotherhood of Saighir. Subsequently, he established monastic communities, founding the monastery of Druim Fertain in Carberry and another on the upper island of Lough Sheelin in County Meath. The remains of his church, Cill Cartaig (Carthage's Church), can be found in a townland called Monument in the barony of Clanmaurice.
Veneration
Saint Carthage the Elder's feast day is observed on March 5th. His importance in Irish hagiography is evidenced by his inclusion in texts such as The Martyrology of Donegal, which notes him as an alumnus of Ciaran of Saighir and lists his monastic sites, including Druim-fertain, Inish Uachtair in Loch Sileann, and Cill Charthaigh (identified as Kilcar).
Historical Context
His life is situated within the broader context of early Irish Christianity, a period marked by the establishment of monastic centers and the development of distinct Irish ecclesiastical traditions. His connection to figures like Ciaran of Saighir and Óengus mac Nad Froích places him within a network of influential religious and royal families of the time.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Saint Carthage the Elder?
Saint Carthage the Elder was an Irish bishop and abbot prominent in the sixth century. He is recognized for his spiritual lineage as a disciple and successor of Ciaran of Saighir.
What is Saint Carthage the Elder known for?
He is chiefly remembered as the tutor and fosterer of Saint Carthage of Lismore, a more famous namesake. He also undertook a penitential pilgrimage and founded monastic settlements.
When is Saint Carthage the Elder's feast day?
His feast day is celebrated on March 5.
Where did Saint Carthage the Elder establish monasteries?
He founded the monastery of Druim Fertain in Carberry and another monastery in the upper island of Lough Sheelin in County Meath.
What was Saint Carthage the Elder's lineage?
He was of the Eóganacht Chaisil and was the son, or more likely the grandson, of Óengus mac Nad Froích, who was baptized by Saint Patrick.
Related Saints
Ciarán of Saigir
Ciarán of Saigir was an Irish saint, considered one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland and the first saint born in Ireland. He is known as the bishop of Saighir and the patron saint of the diocese of Ossory, with his feast day celebrated on March 5th.
Pope Lucius I
Pope Lucius I was the bishop of Rome from 253 to 254 AD. He was banished shortly after his consecration but later permitted to return. He is remembered for condemning the Novationists and for his prudent actions during a difficult period, although he was mistakenly classified as a martyr in later traditions.
Oliva of Brescia
Saint Oliva was a Christian martyr martyred under Emperor Hadrian. Her relics are venerated at Saint Afra's Church in Brescia, and her feast day is celebrated on March 5th.