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Animal Rights History Timeline » [c485-1450] Medieval Ages » Saint Kevin, Abbott of Glendalough

Saint Kevin of Glendalough

John Cannon, "St. Kevin or Coemgin, Abbott of Glendalough [d. 618], County of Wicklow [thought composed during or before the twelfth century]," in vol. 6 of Lives of the Irish Saints, by the Rev. John Canon O' hann (Dubin, London & NewYork, 1873; Google Books: Online Library of Free eBooks.

Myths regarding St. Kevin's relationship with animals adorn his life. He was nourished by the milk of a white cow miraculously appearing each morning and evening. Cows who had turned mad when a rebuked St. Kevin feared for his sanctity, were returned to their gentle natures by a sprinkling of water blessed by him. He persuaded the she-wolf responsible, to provide solace to a cow morning the loss of her calf. Throughout the text examples abound "illustrating the gentleness of his disposition. (33)

As illustrating the gentleness of his disposition, it is said, that the beasts, on the mountains and in the woods, laying aside their natural ferocity accompanied St. Kevin. In a domesticated state, they tamely drank water from his hands. (46)

St. Kevin remained praying beneath a tree, while many birds were seen perched upon his head and shoulders. The flew around him, likewise, and warbled sweet hymns in honour of God's servant. (49)

I do not desire, that God's creatures be moved on my account, for the Lord can otherwise assist my place; and moreover, all animals about these mountains are mild and domesticated towards me, and they should feel sorrowful. (53)