Wilgils
Wilgils of Ripon was a seventh-century Anglo-Saxon saint and hermit, chiefly known as the father of St. Willibrord, the Apostle to Frisia. He was a peasant who later lived as a hermit, founded an oratory and church, and received royal patronage.
- Feast Day
- January 31
- Century
- 7th century
- Country Or Region
- England
Key Facts
- ›Wilgils was a seventh-century saint and hermit of Anglo-Saxon England.
- ›He was the father of St. Willibrord, the Apostle to Frisia.
- ›Alcuin described him as a churl or "a non-servile peasant" of Northumbria.
- ›Wilgils lived as a hermit on the banks of the Humber estuary.
- ›He founded an oratory and church at the mouth of the Humber with royal patronage.
- ›His feast day is January 31.
About Wilgils
Wilgils of Ripon
Wilgils of Ripon, also known by the names Wilgisl and Hilgis, was a notable figure in seventh-century Anglo-Saxon England, recognized as a saint and a hermit. His primary significance in historical and hagiographical records stems from his role as the father of St. Willibrord, the renowned Apostle to Frisia and patron saint of the Netherlands and Luxembourg. Wilgils' life and piety are mainly documented through the writings of Alcuin, particularly in the "Life of St. Willibrord," with additional mentions by Secgan and Bede.
Life and Historical Context
Alcuin characterizes Wilgils as a "churl" or a "non-servile peasant," identifying him as a Saxon from Northumbria, which at the time was predominantly Angle. Wilgils was the father of St. Willibrord, who was born around 658 AD. Beyond his paternal role, Alcuin also notes that Wilgils served as the paterfamilias of Alcuin's own family. This familial connection is further evidenced by Alcuin's inheritance of Wilgils' oratory and church. Wilgils also held a distant familial relationship with Beornred, who became the abbot of Echternach and Bishop of Sens.
Ministry and Legacy
Wilgils demonstrated his devotion by entrusting his son, St. Willibrord, to the church. He then chose a life of asceticism, settling as a hermit on the banks of the Humber estuary. His reputation for sanctity grew, attracting royal patronage. This support enabled him to establish an oratory and a church at the mouth of the Humber, marking a significant religious foundation. His feast day is commemorated on January 31st.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Wilgils of Ripon?
Wilgils of Ripon was a seventh-century Anglo-Saxon saint and hermit. He is best known as the father of a prominent missionary, St. Willibrord.
What is Wilgils known for?
Wilgils is known for being the father of St. Willibrord, the Apostle to Frisia. He himself lived as a hermit on the banks of the Humber estuary and founded an oratory and church there.
What was Wilgils' social status?
According to Alcuin, Wilgils was a churl, described as a "non-servile peasant." He was a Saxon of Northumbria, which was predominantly Angle at the time.
When is Wilgils' feast day?
The feast day of Wilgils of Ripon is celebrated on January 31.
What sources mention Wilgils?
Wilgils is primarily known from the Life of St. Willibrord by Alcuin. He is also mentioned by Secgan and Bede.
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