Ludger

Saint Ludger was born around 742 among the Christian Frisian nobility, the son of Thiadgrim and Liafburg. As a boy he was deeply marked by seeing Saint Boniface and later hearing of his martyrdom. Sent to study at the cathedral school of Utrecht, Ludger also spent time in York, where he was formed by the learning and friendship of Alcuin. Ordained in 777, he devoted himself to missionary work in East Frisia, teaching each autumn in Utrecht while steadily preaching Christ among the people. When persecution drove the missionaries out, Ludger sought counsel in Rome and lived for a time at Monte Cassino, absorbing the spirit of Benedictine life. Recalled to the frontier lands, he evangelized the Frisians and then the Saxons with patient, peaceful methods, earning the title “Apostle of Saxony.” He founded monasteries and churches, most notably Werden Abbey, and in 805 was consecrated the first Bishop of Münster, forming clergy and giving generously to the poor. He died peacefully on 26 March 809. He is especially honored as patron of Werden, East Frisia, and Deventer. His feast day is March 26.