Saint Laurence O'Toole
Archbishop of Dublin, once a hostage and abbot of Glendalough
- Rank
- Saint
- Kind
- Bishop
- Life
- 1128 – 1180
- Era
- 12th century
- Feast
- 14 November
- Countries
- Ireland, France
Life story
Laurence was born around 1128 in County Kildare, a son of Muirchertach Ua Tuathail, chief of Uí Muiredaig. At the age of ten he was sent to Diarmait Mac Murchada as a hostage for his father. In 1154, aged 26, he became abbot of Glendalough.
In 1162, after the death of Archbishop Gregory, he was elected archbishop of Dublin and served until his death. After Diarmait was driven out in 1166 he returned with Norman allies, who landed in 1169; Laurence ministered in Dublin during the siege of 1170. King Henry II arrived in Dublin on 11 November 1171. In 1179 Laurence left Ireland to attend the Third Lateran Council in Rome, and returned as papal legate for Ireland. He then crossed to England to see Henry II and followed the king to Normandy.
He died at Eu in Normandy on 14 November 1180. Pope Honorius III canonised him on 11 December 1225. His feast is 14 November.
Works and witness
- Hostage for his father at age ten
- Abbot of Glendalough from 1154
- Archbishop of Dublin from 1162
- Left Ireland in 1179 for the Third Lateran Council
- Died at Eu on 14 November 1180; canonised on 11 December 1225
Saints from the same country
References
- Catholic Encyclopedia, "St. Lawrence O'Toole" (newadvent.org/cathen/09091b.htm)
- Dictionary of Irish Biography, "Ua Tuathail, Lorcán" (dib.ie)
Written by Anawim from documented history. Some details about ancient saints rest on tradition and are marked as such.