Saint Kevin
Saint Kevin was born in Ireland in the early 400’s. He was of royal descent. Kevin was educated in a monastery and became a priest himself. As a priest in Glendalough near Dublin, Kevin began a monastery, which thrived for many years. But like many holy people of his time, Kevin preferred the life of a hermit. He left his monastery to be alone, so that he could immerse himself in prayer and meditation.
Living as a hermit, Kevin spent many hours traveling on foot around the beautiful lake of Glendalough. His path became known as “The Green Road”, because it is here that he enjoyed the green forests and the beauty of the natural environment. It is here that he spent hours in prayer and meditation.
By his example, Kevin taught his monks the value of prayer. He taught that through prayer we come to know ourselves and God better. Through prayer we find stability, perseverance and nourishment for our souls. These things guide us throughout life and lead us closer to God.
The story of St. Kevin is about carefully and tenderly nourishing those fragile things in our lives which might break at any moment, but, with love, they flourish and bring new life and joy.
St. Kevin is said to have lived to the age of 120. He became a saint in 1903 and we celebrate his feast on June 3.