Hadrian of Canterbury

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Hadrian of Canterbury (* in North Africa ; † January 9, 710 ) was a British abbot and saint .

Life

Hadrian (Adrian) was born in the early 7th century about 750 kilometers west of the Nile in the Greek-speaking Byzantine Empire. About 10 years after his birth he had to flee to Naples because of the Arab invasion. Shortly thereafter, he joined a monastery on the island of Nisida . There he learned Latin and received theological, pastoral and liturgical training. After a few years he was appointed abbot of this monastery.

During this time he made the acquaintance of Konstans the Second . In 663, Constans came to Naples while his soldiers were trying to retake Italy. Konstans used him as an ambassador in several cases. When Konstans visited Rome once, he introduced Hadrian to the then Pope Vitalian . He was evidently enthusiastic about him and made him his advisor.

Three years later he was made an offer to become Archbishop of Canterbury . Hadrian declined this offer and referred to Andreas, a monk who belonged to a neighboring monastery. But Andreas also declined because he claimed to be too old for this job. When Pope Vitalian made him the offer again, he suggested Theodor of Tarsus . This finally consented on the condition that Hadrian of Canterbury come along and advise him in Canterbury.

Hadrian and Theodore did not leave together. Theodore was able to travel to England by ship as early as 669, but Hadrian was stopped by the Frankish houseman Ebroin, who believed that Hadrian was traveling on a political mission. Hence, Hadrian reached Canterbury only in 670.

Hadrian was elected and consecrated abbot of the Benedictine monastery of St Peter and Paul in Canterbury on his arrival in 670 .

Hadrian died on January 9, 710.

Remembrance day

The Roman Catholic Church celebrates Remembrance Day on January 9th.

iconography

Hadrian of Canterbury is depicted with a miter and abbot's staff.

literature

Web links

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personal data
SURNAME Canterbury, Hadrian of
ALTERNATIVE NAMES Adrianus Africanus
BRIEF DESCRIPTION Abbot of Canterbury and saint
DATE OF BIRTH 7th century
PLACE OF BIRTH North africa
DATE OF DEATH January 9, 710