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Portrait of St. Frideswide
A portrait of St. Frideswide

St. Frideswide

c. 650 – 727
Feast
October 19 · VIII c.
Patron of
Oxford · Eye ailments · Fugitives
Order
Abbess

Anglo-Saxon abbess (c. 650-727), princess-foundress of a double monastery at Oxford on the site of the present Christ Church cathedral; according to legend fled the unwelcome attentions of King Algar, who was struck blind for pursuing her. Patron of Oxford and the university. Pre-Congregation cultus.

Life & Times

Born: c. 650 · Died: 727 · From: England / Oxford.

Patronage

St. Frideswide is invoked as the patron of oxford, eye ailments, fugitives. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.

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About Catholic Saints

Catholic saints, including St. Frideswide, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.