St. Malachy of Armagh
Archbishop of Armagh and Reformer of the Irish Church
Feast Day: November 2
Biography
St. Malachy (c. 1094–1148), in Irish Máel Máedóc Ua Morgair, was born in Armagh and ordained a priest young. At a time when the Irish Church needed reform in its discipline, liturgy, and sacramental life, he gave himself to the task. He restored the monastery of Bangor, became bishop of Connor around 1124, and was named archbishop of Armagh in 1132. Because a powerful family had long treated the see as hereditary, he could take possession only after years of struggle. Once peace was secured, he resigned in 1137 and returned to the smaller diocese of Down. In 1139 he traveled to Rome, visiting Clairvaux on the way, where he formed a deep friendship with St. Bernard. Pope Innocent II made him papal legate for Ireland. He left some of his companions at Clairvaux to be trained, and in 1142 they founded Mellifont, the first Cistercian abbey in Ireland. Setting out for Rome again in 1148, he fell ill at Clairvaux and died there on November 2, 1148, in Bernard's presence. Bernard wrote his Life. Pope Clement III canonized him in 1190. The so-called 'Prophecy of the Popes,' first published in 1595, is attributed to him but is not his work. Because November 2 is All Souls Day, Ireland keeps his feast on November 3.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Malachy, faithful shepherd of Ireland, you worked patiently to renew the Church and loved your friends in Christ. Pray for the Church in Ireland and in every land, that it may be holy and faithful. Help me to seek peace in times of conflict, to be a true friend, and to meet my final hour with trust in God's mercy. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Malachy of Armagh, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Malachy of Armagh, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.