Peter of Canterbury
Peter of Canterbury was a companion of Augustine of Canterbury and the first abbot of the monastery of SS. Peter and Paul in Canterbury. He played a key role in relaying news and requests between Augustine and Pope Gregory I, and is venerated as a saint.
- Feast Day
- January 6
- Century
- 7th century
- Country Or Region
- England
Key Facts
- ›Peter was a member of the Gregorian mission dispatched by Pope Gregory the Great in 596 to Christianize the Anglo-Saxons.
- ›He accompanied Augustine of Canterbury to Kent, which landed in 597.
- ›Peter was sent as an emissary to Rome around 600 to convey news of the mission's successes and to request more missionaries.
- ›He became the first abbot of the monastery founded in Canterbury, later known as St Augustine's Abbey.
- ›Peter is believed to have drowned while crossing the English Channel on the way to Gaul.
- ›Evidence suggests he was present at a church council in Paris in 614, indicating his death occurred after this date.
Petrus
About Peter of Canterbury
Peter of Canterbury, also known as Petrus, was an Italian monk and a significant figure in the early history of Christianity in England. He was a companion of Augustine of Canterbury and a member of the Gregorian mission, dispatched by Pope Gregory the Great in 596 with the aim of Christianizing the Anglo-Saxons. Peter's involvement was crucial in establishing the nascent church in Kent.
Life and Historical Context
As a presumed native of Italy, Peter joined the Gregorian mission that landed in Kent in 597. The mission quickly achieved success with the conversion of King Æthelberht of Kent, who granted Augustine land for a monastery. Sometime around late 600, Peter, along with fellow missionary Laurence, was sent back to Rome to report on the mission's progress and to seek further support from Pope Gregory I. They returned in 601, bearing the Pope's replies and guidance for Augustine.
Peter was appointed the first abbot of the monastery founded in Canterbury, which was initially dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul. This abbey later became known as St Augustine's Abbey. Bede, the medieval chronicler, describes Peter as both an abbot and a presbyter (priest).
Death and Veneration
Peter's death is traditionally dated to around 607, but this is contradicted by evidence of his presence at a church council in Paris in 614, convened by Chlothar II. He likely died after this council, possibly during his return journey. The circumstances of his death are recorded as drowning while crossing the English Channel near Ambleteuse. Initially buried hastily, local accounts suggest his sanctity was recognized when a light illuminated his grave nightly. He was subsequently exhumed and re-interred in Boulogne.
Peter is venerated as a saint, with his feast day celebrated on January 6. The exact date of his death remains uncertain, and historical records offer conflicting information. His cult was officially confirmed in 1915. While a 12th-century vita by Eadmer exists, it is considered unreliable. Evidence points to him being an object of veneration in Boulogne by the 15th century.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Peter of Canterbury?
Peter of Canterbury, also known as Petrus, was a companion of Augustine of Canterbury and the first abbot of the monastery of SS. Peter and Paul in Canterbury. He was a key figure in the Gregorian mission to Christianize the Anglo-Saxons.
What was Peter of Canterbury's role in the Gregorian mission?
Peter was sent as an emissary to Rome around 600 to report on the mission's progress and to request more missionaries from Pope Gregory I. He also brought back Gregory's replies to Augustine.
When did Peter of Canterbury die?
The exact date of Peter's death is unknown. While traditionally dated to around 607, evidence suggests he was alive and present at a church council in Paris in 614, meaning he likely died after that date. He is also said to have drowned while crossing the English Channel.
When is Peter of Canterbury's feast day?
Peter of Canterbury is venerated as a saint with a feast day celebrated on January 6th. His cult was confirmed in 1915.
Where is Peter of Canterbury associated with?
Peter of Canterbury is primarily associated with Canterbury, England, where he served as the first abbot of a monastery that later became St Augustine's Abbey. He is also associated with Boulogne, France, where he was reportedly buried after drowning.
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