Born in Wessex, England in the 8th century, he was a local Chieftain. When his son Willibald became very sick he laid the baby at the foot of Jesus’ Cross, and he was healed. 

When his sons were old enough, he asked an Abbot to look after his daughter, Walburga, while he took Willibald and Winnabald on a pilgrimage to Rome, praying at all the Shrines along the way. 

It was a long journey and, while making it, Richard began plans to become a priest, However, when they reached Luca in Tuscany, Richard developed a fever and died quite suddenly. 

Very soon, miracles were being reported by those who prayed at his tomb and, soon, the citizens of Luca were venerating Richard. 

Both of his sons, Willibald and Winnabald, and his daughter Wallburga, would go on to become famous for their great faith, like their father. 

St. Richard, please pray for us.