Born at the start of the 6th century, David was a teacher and evangelist, spreading The Word of The Lord across south Wales and helping to establish three monastic settlements and more than fifty churches, which would stand until the Reformation. 

Many miracles were attributed to David but the most famous explains why he is often pictured with a dove. 

Once, while speaking to a large crowd, a dove descended, landed on his shoulder and then the earth rose to form a mound, lifting him high enough to be seen by the entire crowd. 

His monks worked in austerity and silence, but David’s gift was preaching which carried him all across the country, and he became a legendary figure in Wales in his own lifetime. 

He died on this day in 589. His last words were: 

“Be joyful, brothers and sisters. Keep the faith and do the little things you have seen and heard with me.” 

He is the Patron Saint of Wales.

St. David of Wales, please pray for us.