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Portrait of St. Osyth
A portrait of St. Osyth

St. Osyth

c. 7th century – c. 700
Feast
October 7 · VII c.
Patron of
Essex · Women religious · Protection from drowning, traditional
Order
Abbess / Royal / Martyr

Anglo-Saxon princess and abbess (7th century, d. c. 700), of Mercian royal blood; founded a community at Chich in Essex (modern St. Osyth) where she was martyred by Danish raiders. Pre-Congregation; biography traditional with significant legendary accretions.

Life & Times

Born: c. 7th century · Died: c. 700 · From: England / Essex.

Patronage

St. Osyth is invoked as the patron of essex, women religious, protection from drowning, traditional. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.

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About Catholic Saints

Catholic saints, including St. Osyth, 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.