¹ The most blessed Bishop Declan, of the illustrious royal lineage of Ireland, was a holy and revered figure. Declan belonged to one of the most noble dynasties of Ireland—a lineage that had wielded the scepter and exacted tribute over all of Ireland from Tara for generations. His noble birth is evident from his ancestry, which traces back to Eochaid Feidlech, the powerful High King (Ard Rí) of Ireland, who ruled for twelve years.

² Eochaid had three sons: Breas, Nár, and Lothola, known collectively as the “Three Finns of Emain.” From their lineage came one hundred and seven kings of Ireland—both before and after them—descended from Érimón, one of the first legendary rulers of Ireland. These kings reigned from ancient times through the arrival of Christianity and beyond.

³ One day, these three brothers lay with their own sister, Clothra, daughter of Eochaid, and from that union, she conceived a son. This child bore three distinct red wavy lines upon his body, signifying his descent from the three brothers. Because of these markings (sriaba in Old Irish), he was named Lugaid Sriabhdearg. He was an exceptionally strong and beautiful child, surpassing the typical strength of others his age.

⁴ Lugaid ascended to the throne of Ireland in the same year that the Roman emperor Gaius Caesar (Caligula) died, ruling for twenty-six years. His son, Crimthann Nia Náir, succeeded him but reigned for only sixteen years. Crimthann’s son was Fearadach Finnfechtnach, whose son was Fiacha Finnolach, and whose son in turn was Tuathal Teachtmhar. Tuathal had a son, Felimidh Reachtmhar, who fathered three sons: Conn Céadcathach (Conn of the Hundred Battles), Eochaid Finn, and Fiacha Suighdhe.

⁵ Conn ruled as High King of Ireland for twenty years, during which the land flourished with abundant harvests, fertile soil, and prosperous dairy yields. His reign was marked by prosperity, and his name is worthy of remembrance for all time. Conn met his end at Magh Cobha, slain by the Ulstermen under the leadership of Tiopruid Tireach. From his lineage, the kingship of Ireland has primarily been held ever since.

⁶ Eochaid Finn, the second son of Felimidh Reachtmhar, settled in Leinster, his father’s province. His descendants have remained in Leinster ever since, becoming known as the Leinstermen. Many noble chieftains and powerful leaders have emerged from his lineage in that region.

⁷ Fiacha Suighdhe, though he did not ascend to the High Kingship, held lands around Tara. He left behind three sons—Ross, Óengus, and Eóghan—who were renowned warriors, distinguished for their valor and prowess in battle.

⁸ Of the three brothers, Óengus surpassed them all in valor and martial skill, earning the title Óengus Gaebuaibhtheach, meaning “Óengus of the Poisonous Javelin.” At this time, Cormac mac Airt, son of Conn, ruled as High King of Ireland.

⁹ Cormac had a son named Ceallach, who forcibly took Credhe, the daughter of Eóghan mac Fiacha Suighdhe, to live with him. When Óengus heard that his brother’s daughter had been abducted, he was enraged. Determined to exact vengeance, he set out for Tara, bringing with him his foster son, Corc Duibhne, the son of Cairbre, grandson of Conaire, and great-grandson of Mogha Lamha. Corc was being held as a hostage by Cormac on behalf of the Munstermen, and Cormac had entrusted him to Óengus for safekeeping.

¹⁰ Upon reaching Tara, Óengus spotted Ceallach seated behind Cormac. Without hesitation, he hurled his spear, striking Ceallach and piercing him clean through from front to back. As Oengus withdrew his spear, the handle struck Cormac’s eye, causing it to be knocked out. The impact continued, striking the steward and killing him instantly. Oengus and his foster son, however, managed to escape unharmed.

¹¹ Overcome with grief for the loss of his son, his eye, and his steward— all at the hands of Oengus, known for his deadly javelin, and his kinsmen—Cormac ordered their expulsion. He decreed that they be driven not only from their ancestral lands, the Déisi of Tara, but from the entire northern half of Ireland.

¹² However, before their final defeat, seven fierce battles were fought, in which Cormac and his forces suffered heavy losses. Ultimately, Oengus and his kin—Ross, Oengus, and Eoghan, the three sons of Fiacha Suighde—were vanquished. Left with no choice, they fled into exile.

¹³ Having been banished by the High King of Ireland, they sought refuge with the King of Munster, Oilill Olum. His wife, Sadhbh, was the daughter of Conn Céadcathach, which provided them with a claim to his protection. In response, Oilill Olum granted them land—the Déisi of Munster. From that time onward, the rulers and people of the Déisi have descended from the lineage of Eoghan Mac Fiacha Suighde.

¹⁴ From this same lineage of Eoghan came the holy bishop Declan, whom I will speak of later—Declan, son of Eirc, son of Trein, son of Lughaidh, son of Miaich, son of Brian, son of Eoghan, son of Art Corp, son of Moscorb, son of Mesgeadra, son of Measfore, son of Cuana Cainbhreathaigh, son of Conaire Cathbuadhaigh, son of Cairbre, son of Eoghan, son of Fiacha Suighde, son of Felimidh Reachtmhar, son of Tuathal Teachtmhar.

¹⁵ Declan’s father was Erc Mac Trein. He and his wife, Deithin, were visiting their kinsman Dobhran around the time of Declan’s birth. When Deithin gave birth, she did so without sickness, pain, or difficulty. However, as the newborn was lifted up, his head struck a large stone. Let it be noted that even in his mother’s womb, Declan showed signs of sanctification and the power to work miracles, as the prophet writes: “De vulva sanctificavi te et prophetam in gentibus dedi te”—“Before you came forth from the womb, I sanctified you and appointed you as a prophet to the nations”. From the moment of his conception, Declan was sanctified in his mother’s womb and was chosen by God as a prophet to the pagans, destined to lead many from idolatry and the darkness of unbelief to the worship of Christ and the Catholic faith, as we will see. When he was a child, the soft crown of his head struck against a hard stone, yet—miraculously—where his head touched the rock, it left an impression in the exact shape of his skull, without causing him any harm.

¹⁶ This wondrous event astonished all who witnessed it, for at that time, Ireland had not yet received the true faith, and divine signs among its people were rare. The stone, which became known as “Declan’s Rock,” was revered ever after. Even today, the water that gathers in the hollow left by Declan’s head is believed to bring healing to the sick and infirm—another testimony to his sanctity, granted by the grace of God.

¹⁷ On the night of Declan’s birth, a wondrous sign appeared to all who were in the vicinity of his birthplace. A blazing ball of fire was seen hovering above the house where the child lay, stretching upward to the heavens and descending again. Surrounding it was a host of angels, and it took the form of a ladder, just as the patriarch Jacob saw in his vision. Those who witnessed these events were astonished, yet they did not understand their significance, for the true faith had not yet been preached in that region.

¹⁸ In response to this divine manifestation, a devout Christian named Colman—who was then a priest and would later become a holy bishop—arrived at the place of Declan’s birth, filled with joy and the spirit of prophecy. He proclaimed the faith of Christ to Declan’s parents and revealed to them that their child was full of God’s grace. He foretold the great glory and honor that awaited the infant, both before God and among men, and it was revealed to him that Declan would lead a life of holiness and devotion.

¹⁹ By the grace of God, Declan’s parents, Erc and Deithin, came to believe in Christ through Colman’s preaching. They entrusted their child to him for baptism, and Colman baptized the infant, giving him the name Declan. In the presence of all, after administering the sacrament, Colman spoke this prophecy concerning the child: “Truly, beloved child and lord, you will be exalted both in heaven and on earth. Your holiness, good works, and renown will spread throughout all of Ireland. You will lead your people, the Déisi, from paganism to Christianity. Because of this, I pledge myself to you in brotherhood and commend myself to your sanctity.”

²⁰ Colman then returned home and ordered that Declan be raised with proper care, ensuring he was well educated and sent to study at the age of seven, provided a qualified Christian teacher could be found nearby. From the time of his baptism, grace and extraordinary charity were evident in Declan’s face, making it clear to all that his goodness and spiritual beauty would be great in adulthood. When Dobhran saw and heard these things about his relative Erc, he asked Erc and Deithin to let him foster the child, and Erc agreed. At that time, the place was called “Dobhran’s Place,” but it has since been known as “Declan’s Place.” Dobhran gave the homestead to Declan and moved his own residence elsewhere. In later years, when Declan became a bishop, he built a renowned cell there in honor of God. The location of this cell is in the southern part of the Decies, east of Magh Sgiath and not far from Mochuda’s city, Lismore. For seven years, Dobhran, Declan’s uncle, lovingly fostered him and cared for him greatly. During this time, God performed many remarkable miracles through Declan. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit within him, Declan—a wise and devout Christian—avoided all faults and every unlawful desire.

²¹ When Declan reached the age of seven, he was taken from his parents, family, and fosterers and sent to study, just as Colman had decreed. He was entrusted to Dioma, a devout man, perfect in faith, who had come to Ireland at that time by God’s providence after spending many years abroad acquiring learning. Dioma built a small cell there, both as a place to live and to instruct Declan. Alongside Declan, another child was given to him for instruction—Cairbre Mac Colmain—who later became a holy and learned bishop. The two studied together for a considerable time.

²² The seven men who lived in Magh Sgiath often saw the fiery globe that had first appeared at the time of Declan’s birth. By the grace of God, they were the first to witness and describe this light. These seven men came to the place where Declan lived and accepted him as their guide and master. In front of everyone, they declared that he would one day become a bishop, speaking prophetically: “O beloved child and servant of God, the day will come when we will entrust ourselves and our lands to you.” And so it happened as they foretold, for once they believed, they were baptized and became wise, devout, and faithful. They then built seven churches in honor of God around Magh Sgiath.

²³ Declan stayed for a long time with Dioma, the holy man already mentioned, and grew in knowledge, holiness, and a deep understanding of learning and doctrine. He was wise, gentle, and capable, so that many who knew of his noble lineage came when they heard of the fullness of his sanctity and grace. They submitted themselves to him and accepted his religious rule. Declan decided that it would be right for him to visit Rome to study discipline and the structure of the Church, to gain recognition and approval there, and to receive the authority to preach to the Irish people. He also wished to bring back with him the customs and regulations of Rome as they were practiced there. Setting out with his followers, he did not delay until he reached Rome, where they remained for some time.

²⁴ At that time, there was a holy bishop named Ailbe, who had been in Rome for many years and was a member of the household of Pope Hilary, by whom he had been ordained a bishop. When Declan and his disciples arrived in Rome, Ailbe welcomed him with great affection and joy, testifying before the people of Rome to Declan’s holiness of life and noble lineage. Upon learning of his worthiness, both the clergy and the people of Rome honored him and showed him sincere affection. Declan was handsome and of good appearance, humble in his actions, sweet in speech, wise in counsel, open in conversation, virtuous in demeanor, generous in giving, holy in life, and radiant with miracles.

²⁵ After spending a considerable time in Rome, Declan was ordained a bishop by the Pope, who gave him church books, rules, and instructions and sent him to Ireland to preach. After bidding farewell to the Pope and receiving his blessing, Declan began his journey back to Ireland. Many Romans followed him, seeking to make a pilgrimage and dedicate their lives to God under the guidance and rule of Bishop Declan. Among those who accompanied him was Runan, the son of the king of Rome, who was especially dear to Declan.

²⁶ As they traveled through Italy, Bishop Declan and Patrick met. At that time, Patrick was not yet a bishop, though he was later ordained by Pope Celestine, who sent him to preach to the Irish. Patrick truly became the chief bishop of the island of Ireland. They bid each other farewell, formed a bond of mutual brotherhood, and exchanged a kiss as a sign of peace. Then, they each continued on their respective journeys—Declan to Ireland and Patrick to Rome.

²⁷ One day, as Declan was beginning Mass in a church along his route, a small black bell was sent to him from heaven. It entered through the church window and landed on the altar before him. Declan rejoiced greatly, giving thanks and glory to Christ for this sign, which strengthened his resolve to combat the errors and false teachings of paganism. He entrusted the bell to Runan, the son of the king of Rome, for safekeeping and transport. In Ireland, the bell became known as “Duibhin Declain,” named after its black color [dub]. By the grace of God and through Declan’s merits, many miracles were performed through the bell, and it is still preserved in Declan’s church.

²⁸ When Declan and his holy companions arrived at the Sea of Icht [the English Channel], they were unable to find a ship due to a lack of money, as they could not afford the required fare. Because of this, every ship refused them passage. In his distress, Declan struck his bell and prayed to God for assistance. Shortly afterward, they saw an empty ship with no sails and no crew coming toward them, riding on the crest of the waves.

²⁹ Declan then said, “Let us board this ship in the name of Christ, and He who has sent it to us will guide it safely to whatever harbor He wills.” At his word, they entered the ship, which then floated calmly and securely until it reached a harbor in England. Once Declan and his disciples disembarked, the ship turned back on its own and returned to the place from which it had come. Those who witnessed the miracle or heard of it glorified the name of the Lord and praised Declan, fulfilling the words of the prophet David: “Mirabilis Deus in Sanctis Suis”—“God is wonderful in His Saints.”

³⁰ After this, Declan returned to Ireland. He was wise as a serpent, gentle as a dove, and diligent like a bee, for just as the bee gathers honey while avoiding poisonous plants, so did Declan. He gathered the sweet nectar of grace and Holy Scripture until he was filled with it. Before Patrick arrived in Ireland, there were already four holy bishops and their followers who preached the Gospel and spread the word of God. These were Ailbe, Bishop Ibar, Declan, and Ciaran. They led many away from error and into the faith of Christ. However, it was Patrick who spread the faith throughout all of Ireland and who turned the chiefs and kings of the land toward baptism, faith, sacrifice, and the understanding of eternal judgment.

³¹ Declan, Ailbe, and Bishop Ibar formed a bond of friendship and a lasting covenant between themselves and their spiritual descendants, both in heaven and on earth, forever. They loved one another deeply, but Saints Ailbe and Declan, in particular, shared such a close bond that they loved each other as if they were brothers. Their affection was so great that they could hardly bear to be apart, except when their followers, fearing the consequences of their constant companionship, insisted that they separate for a short time. After this, Declan returned to his homeland in the Decies of Munster, where he preached the Gospel, baptized many in the name of Christ, and turned them from the power of the devil to the Catholic faith. He built numerous churches and appointed many of his followers to serve there, worshipping God and leading others away from the snares of Satan.

³² Once, Declan visited the place of his birth, where he stayed for forty days and established a religious community. Since then, devout men have lived there continuously. During this time, the seven men we previously mentioned—who had settled around Magh Sgiath and had foretold Declan’s coming—came to him. As they had promised, they dedicated themselves and their community to him. Their names were Mocellac, Riadan, Colman, Lactain, Finnlaoc, Kevin, and Mobi. From that time on, they lived under Bishop Declan’s authority and spiritual guidance, leading devout lives and performing many miracles.

³³ After some time, Declan set out to visit Aongus MacNatfrich, the king of Cashel, to preach to him and convert him to faith in Christ. Declan had two brothers on his mother’s side, sons of Aongus: Colman and Eoghan. Moved by the grace of the Holy Spirit, Colman went to Ailbe of Emly, where he received baptism and took the religious habit from him. He remained there for a time, diligently studying until he became a saintly and virtuous man.

³⁴ Eoghan, however, stayed at home, expecting to inherit the kingdom of Munster after his father’s death. He urged his father to show due honor to his brother Declan. The king agreed, placing no obstacles in the way of Declan’s preaching. Though Aongus was pleased with Declan’s faith and teachings, he neither believed nor accepted baptism himself.

³⁵ It is said that his refusal was not out of hostility to Christianity but rather due to political divisions: Declan belonged to the Déisi, part of Conn’s Half, while Aongus was of the Eóganacht of Cashel, traditionally opposed to the Déisi. However, this was not a rejection of the faith itself. This is evident from the fact that when Aongus later heard of the arrival of Patrick, the Archbishop of Ireland—a man of British descent, against whom the Irish held no hostility—he not only believed but went out from his city of Cashel to meet him, openly professed Christianity, and was immediately baptized.

³⁶ After this, Declan, having spread the word of God and preached to the king—though the king did not accept his teachings—returned to his own people. The Déisi believed and were baptized, with the sole exception of the king and his household. Though they repeatedly promised to believe and receive baptism, they hesitated and delayed each day. This, however, was due to the influence of the Devil, who led them to constant doubt and procrastination.

³⁷ Some sources claim that Declan traveled to Rome many times, but the ancient biographers only provide written testimony of three such journeys. On one of these occasions, Declan visited Saint David, the holy bishop of the Britons, at the church known as Killmuine (now Menevia). This church was located near the shore of the sea that separates Ireland from Britain.

³⁸ Bishop David welcomed Declan with great honor, and he remained there for forty days in friendship and joy. Each day, they celebrated Mass together, and they formed a lasting bond of Christian brotherhood, a friendship that continued between them and their successors for generations. At the end of the forty days, Declan bid farewell to David with a kiss as a sign of peace. Then, he and his companions made their way to the seashore to set sail for Ireland.

³⁹ The bell that had been sent from heaven to Declan was, at that time, in the care of Runan, who carried it as we have mentioned, since Declan did not wish to part with it under any circumstances. On this particular day, as they made their way to the ship, Runan entrusted the bell to another member of the group. However, when they reached the shore, this person set the bell down on a rock and forgot about it.

⁴⁰ It was only when they were halfway across the sea that they remembered the bell, and their hearts were filled with distress. Declan was deeply sorrowful that the gift sent to him by the Lord from heaven had been left behind in a place where he never expected to find it again. Lifting his eyes to heaven, he prayed silently to God. Then he turned to his companions and said, “Do not grieve. The same God who first sent us this bell can, by His wondrous power, send it to us again by some miraculous means.”

⁴¹ In a marvelous and beautiful display of obedience to its Creator, the lifeless and heavy rock floated effortlessly across the water, steady and unwavering. In a short time, the travelers saw it behind them, carrying the bell upon it.

⁴² When Declan’s companions witnessed this miracle, their hearts were filled with awe for God and deep reverence for their master. Then Declan spoke to them with prophetic insight: “Let the bell go before you, and follow it exactly. Wherever it comes to shore, there will be my city and my bishopric. From there, I will depart for paradise, and there I will rise again.” The bell continued ahead of the ship, miraculously slowing its speed just enough to remain in sight but never be overtaken.

⁴³ The bell traveled toward Ireland until it arrived at a harbor on the southern coast, in the region of the Déisi of Munster, at an island known at the time as High Sheep Island (Aird na gCcaorach). As Saint Declan had foretold, the ship carrying him made landfall at the same place. The holy man stepped onto the shore, giving thanks and praise to God for bringing him to the place where he would one day be laid to rest.

⁴⁴ At that time, sheep belonging to the wife of the Déisi chieftain grazed on the island, which is how it came to be called Aird na gCcaorach. The island featured a prominent hill, a striking landmark. One of Declan’s companions climbed to its summit and remarked, “How can this small hill support your people?” Declan replied, “Do not call it a small hill, beloved son, but rather ‘Great Height’ (Ard Mór).” From that moment, the name remained, and the city has been known ever since as Ardmore-Declain. Following this, Declan traveled to the king of the Déisi and requested the island. The king granted it to him.

⁴⁵ Declan then returned to Áit-Breasail, where, on the northern side, there was a harbor filled with ships and boats traveling back and forth to the island. However, the island’s inhabitants, fearing that Declan would settle there and that they themselves would be driven out, hid all their boats to prevent his landing.

⁴⁶ Seeing this, Declan’s disciples said to him, “Father, many necessities must be brought from the mainland, and we will often need to travel by boat to this island. After you have gone to heaven, the crossings will only become more frequent. We beg you either to abandon this place or to ask God to make the sea recede, so that the land can be reached on foot. For Christ Himself has said, ‘Whatever you ask the Father in my name, He will give you’. This place cannot easily be inhabited unless the sea withdraws, and for that reason, you cannot establish your city here.”

⁴⁷ Declan answered them, saying, “How can I abandon the place ordained by God, where He has promised that I will be buried and raised again? As for the difficulties of living here, do you want me to pray for something that goes against God’s will—to take the sea away from its natural place? Still, to honor your request, I will pray to God, and let whatever is His will be done.”

⁴⁸ At this, Declan’s community stood up and said, “Father, take your crosier, just as Moses took his staff, and strike the sea with it. In this way, God will reveal His will to you.” Because Declan’s disciples were devout and holy men, they urged him to pray. They placed his crosier in his hand, and he struck the water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, making the sign of the cross over the waves.

⁴⁹ Immediately, by God’s command and power, the sea began to recede from its usual place—so quickly that the creatures of the deep were swimming and thrashing, struggling to escape with the retreating waters.

⁵⁰ However, many fish were left stranded on the dry shore due to the sudden retreat of the tide. With his crosier in hand, Declan walked after the receding sea, and his disciples followed closely behind him. Meanwhile, the retreating waters and the fleeing sea creatures created a great noise and commotion.

⁵¹ When Declan reached the place where the shoreline now lies, a young boy named Mainchín, alarmed by the thunderous roar of the waves and the cries of strange sea monsters with gaping mouths retreating with the water, cried out, “Father, you have driven the sea back far enough! I am afraid of those terrible creatures.”

⁵² Hearing this and seeing that the sea had stopped at the boy’s words, Declan was displeased. Turning to Mainchín, he lightly struck him on the nose. Three drops of blood fell to the ground in three distinct places at Declan’s feet.

⁵³ Then Declan blessed the man’s nose, and the bleeding stopped immediately. Declan then said, “It was not I who drove out the sea, but God, in His great power, who expelled it. And He would have done even more if you had not spoken as you did.”

⁵⁴ At the spot where three drops of blood fell at Declan’s feet, three small wells of clear, sweet water sprang up. These wells remain to this day, and at times, a reddish hue appears in them as a sign of this miracle. The land reclaimed from the sea stretches about a mile wide and extends far along the shore. It is fertile, well-suited for both farming and grazing, and it lies beneath Declan’s monastery. As for the crosier that Declan held when he performed this miracle, it is called the Feartach Decláin—named after the wonders (fertaib) worked through it. In a later section, I will recount more of the miracles attributed to it.

⁵⁵ After Saint Declan—whose name and renown spread across Ireland due to his many great miracles—drove back the sea, he began constructing a grand monastery on the southern bank of the stream that flows through the island into the sea. This monastery, both magnificent and revered, is known as Ardmore Decláin, as we have mentioned.

⁵⁶ Word of Declan’s holiness spread far and wide, drawing people from every corner of Ireland. Many came to him, dedicating their lives—body and soul—to God under his guidance, embracing his rule and discipline. Declan went on to build numerous churches and monasteries throughout the land of the Déisi, and not only in his own territory but even in other regions of Ireland that acknowledged his authority. Thousands of men and women lived under his spiritual leadership in these places, leading devout and blessed lives. He ordained some of his followers as bishops, appointing them to these regions to spread the faith and nurture the growth of Christianity. Declan’s kindness and generosity were so profound that his disciples chose to remain under his direct guidance rather than seek positions of authority in other monasteries.

⁵⁷ After this, the holy and renowned bishop—the leader of justice and faith in the island of the Gaels—came to Ireland. This was Patrick, sent by Pope Celestine. When Óengus mac Nath Fraích heard of his arrival, he immediately went to meet him. With great reverence and honor, he escorted Patrick to his royal city, Cashel. There, Patrick baptized him, blessed him, his people, and his city.

⁵⁸ Patrick then learned that the prince of the Déisi had neither been baptized nor accepted the faith. Moreover, there was a dispute between this prince and Declan, and the prince refused to receive instruction from him. Hearing this, Patrick set out to preach to the prince himself.

⁵⁹ As for the four bishops previously mentioned who had been to Rome, only Declan was fully in accord with Patrick from the start. However, in time, the others made peace with him, pledged their loyalty, and worked alongside him in unity. Ciarán, however, showed Patrick complete respect and devotion at all times, whether in his presence or from afar.

⁶⁰ When Ailbe saw the kings and rulers of Ireland paying homage to Patrick and going out to meet him, he too came to Cashel to greet him. In the presence of the king and all gathered, Ailbe showed his respect and submitted to Patrick’s authority. It should be noted that Ailbe had been chosen by the other holy bishops as their leader. Wanting to prevent any resistance to Patrick on his account, Ailbe was the first to acknowledge Patrick’s authority, hoping that his example would encourage the others to do the same.

⁶¹ However, Bishop Ibar refused to submit to Patrick, as he resented the idea of a foreigner becoming Ireland’s spiritual leader. Patrick, after all, was of British origin and had been sold into slavery in Ireland as a boy. Initially, this led to disagreement and conflict between Patrick and Bishop Ibar. However, through the intervention of the Angel of Peace, they were eventually reconciled, forming a lasting bond of brotherhood and unity. Declan, on the other hand, never had any desire to oppose Patrick. They had already formed a strong friendship while traveling along the roads of Italy. Moreover, an angel had commanded Declan to go to Patrick and follow his leadership.

⁶² The angel of God appeared to Declan and said, “Go quickly to Patrick and stop him from cursing your people and your land. Tonight, on the plain called Inneoin, he is fasting against the king. If he curses your people, they will be cursed forever.”

⁶³ Without delay, Declan set out as the angel had commanded, traveling to Inneoin—a place in the heart of the plain of Femhin, in the northern part of the Déisi. He crossed Slieve Gua (now known as Knockmealdown) and the River Suir, arriving the next morning at Patrick’s camp.

⁶⁴ When Patrick and his followers heard that Declan had arrived, they welcomed him warmly, for they had been told he would not come. Patrick and his companions received him with great honor. Declan, in turn, bowed before Patrick and pleaded with him earnestly not to bring a curse upon his people or their land. He assured Patrick that he would allow him to act as he saw fit.

⁶⁵ Patrick replied, “Because of your request, not only will I refrain from cursing them, but I will bless them instead.” With this assurance, Declan went to the king of the Déisi, who was his neighbor. However, the king, Ledbán, showed contempt for Patrick and refused to believe in him, even at Declan’s urging. Declan even promised him rewards if he would go to Patrick, receive baptism, and accept the faith, but the king remained stubborn and refused outright.

⁶⁶ Seeing Ledbán’s obstinance in unbelief and wickedness, Declan feared that Patrick might curse the land and its people. Turning to the gathered assembly, he declared, “Separate yourselves from this cursed man, lest you too fall under a curse because of him. I have already baptized and blessed you. Now come with us to Patrick, whom God has sent to bless you. He has been chosen as the Archbishop and chief patron of all Ireland. Furthermore, I have a rightful claim to my own inheritance and to be your king, just as this man (Ledbán) has been.”

⁶⁷ At these words, the entire assembly rose and followed Declan, who led them to Patrick and said, “See, the entire people of the Déisi have come with me as their leader to you. They have abandoned the cursed prince they once served, and now they are ready to honor and obey you, for it is through me that they have received baptism.” Hearing this, Patrick stood with his followers and blessed the people of the Déisi—not only them but also their forests, rivers, and land. Then the nobles and chieftains of the Déisi asked, “Who will be our king or lord now?”

⁶⁸ Declan answered, “I am your lord, and the one I appoint as your leader, Patrick and all of us will bless. He will be king over you all.” Declan then chose Feargal mac Cormac, a young man of the Déisi and his own kinsman. He placed him at the center of the gathering, in the position of a king, and he was pleasing to all. Then Patrick and Declan blessed him, each declaring him chieftain in turn. Patrick also promised him that he would be strong and courageous in battle and that the land would be fertile during his reign. And so it has been for the kings of the Déisi ever since.

⁶⁹ After these events, Declan, Feargal Mac Cormac (King of the Déisi), and his people granted a large tract of land to Patrick near Magh Feimhin. This land has belonged to Patrick’s successors ever since, and they have held great authority there. The place given to Patrick is not far from the River Suir. There, a great and remarkably clear spring is found, known as “Patrick’s Well,” which was especially dear to him. After this, they parted ways with blessings. Patrick returned to Cashel to visit Aongus Mac Natfrich, and Declan accompanied him.

⁷⁰ At that time, a miracle was performed for Declan through the intercession and prayers of Patrick. As Declan was walking carelessly, he stepped on a sharp piece of iron that cut his foot deeply, causing blood to flow freely. He began to limp from the wound.

⁷¹ Among those present were Ailbe of Emly and Sechnall, a bishop under Patrick, a holy and wise man. Sechnall is said to be the first bishop buried in Ireland. They were greatly troubled by Declan’s injury. When Patrick heard of the accident, he was saddened and prayed, saying, “Heal, O Master—God—your servant, who endures much toil and hardship for your sake.”

⁷² Patrick then placed his hand on Declan’s wounded foot, made the sign of the cross over it, and at once, the bleeding stopped. The wound closed, a scar formed, and the foot was completely healed. Declan immediately stood up, giving praise to God. Seeing this, the soldiers and warriors who were present cried out loudly, blessing God and the saints.

⁷³ While Patrick and the saints—Ailbe, Declan, and their disciples—were in Cashel, the land of Aongus mac Nathfrich, they made great progress in overcoming paganism and false beliefs, converting many to Christianity. In the presence of the assembled people, Patrick and Aongus mac Nathfrich decreed that the Archbishopric of Munster would belong to Ailbe. Similarly, Declan was entrusted with his own people, the Déisi, whom he had converted, and they became his parish and episcopal see. Just as the Irish were to serve Patrick, so too were the Déisi to honor Declan as their patron. Then Patrick composed this verse:

⁷⁴ “Humble Ailbe, the Patrick of Munster, greater than any words can express, and Declan, the Patrick of the Déisi—the Déisi belong to Declan forever.” This means that Ailbe was like a second Patrick, and Declan was like a second Patrick for the Déisi. After this, when the king had bid them farewell and they had all taken leave of one another, the saints returned to their own lands to sow the seed of faith.

⁷⁵ Declan and Ferghal Mac Cormac, king of the Déisi, along with his army and followers, met at Indeoin, where they further strengthened the people’s commitment to the Christian faith. The king previously mentioned, Ledbán, who rejected the Christian name, was cast aside by all and came to nothing, leaving no memory of his deeds, just as it is written of the enemies of the faith: “Their memory perishes like a sound”. Furthermore, Declan, Fergal, and the leading men of the Déisi decreed that this would be the place where the king of the Déisi would be inaugurated from that time forward, because it was there that Patrick and Declan blessed King Fergal. Additionally, tradition holds that this was also the place where the kings of the Déisi were crowned and ruled in pagan times.

⁷⁶ At that time, a dreadful plague broke out in Munster, striking Cashel more severely than anywhere else. Those afflicted by it first turned yellow before succumbing to death. Now, in a stone fort called Rath na nIrlann on the western side of Cashel, Aongus had seven noble hostages. It happened that, in a single night, they all perished from the plague. The king was deeply troubled by this and ordered the matter to be kept secret, fearing it would bring disgrace upon him or even lead to war, as the hostages belonged to the most powerful and influential families in Munster.

⁷⁷ However, the next morning, Declan arrived in Cashel and spoke with Aongus. The king warmly welcomed him and, in the presence of his court, addressed him, saying: “I beg you, Declan, servant of God, in the name of Christ, to restore to life the seven hostages whom I held in captivity from the chieftains of Munster. They have died from the plague, as you have heard, and I fear their fathers will rise against me in war and rebellion, for they are men of great power. Indeed, we are ashamed of their deaths, for they will claim that it was we who killed them.”

⁷⁸ Declan answered the king, saying: “To raise the dead to life is a matter that belongs to God alone—but I will do whatever is in my power. I will go to where their bodies lie and pray to God for them, and let Him do what seems best to Him.” Then Declan, accompanied by a great multitude, his disciples, and the king’s councillors, went to the place where the young men’s bodies lay. The king followed behind until he could see them. Filled with divine faith, Declan entered the house where they rested, sprinkled holy water over them, and prayed in the presence of all: “O Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the living God, for Your name’s sake, awaken these dead, that through us they may be strengthened in the Catholic faith.”

⁷⁹ At Declan’s prayer, the bodies stirred, their eyelids flickering. Then Declan said to them, “In the name of Christ, our Saviour, stand up and bless and glorify God.” At his words, they immediately rose and spoke before all. Declan then told the king that they were alive and well. When the people witnessed this great miracle, they glorified and praised God. Declan’s fame spread throughout all of Ireland, and the king rejoiced at the restoration of his hostages.

⁸⁰ Declan of Cashel, seeing the people’s faith, prayed earnestly to God and marked the four points of the compass with the sign of Redemption. As he finished, the words of Christ to His disciples before ascending into heaven were fulfilled: “Super aegros imponent manus et bene habebunt” (“I will place my hands on the sick and they will be healed”). The moment Declan made the sign of the cross, all who were ill were immediately restored to health—not only those present but also every sick person throughout the entire region, wherever they were. Furthermore, the plague was completely driven out from every place, and the people rejoiced greatly, both at this miracle and at the resurrection of the dead men previously mentioned. In gratitude, the king decreed that tribute and honour should be given to Declan and his successors by himself and by every future king of Cashel. Then the glorious bishop Declan blessed Aongus, along with his city and people, and returned to his own land.

⁸¹ One night, Declan was a guest at the home of a wealthy man who lived in the southern part of Magh Femhin. This man, whose name was Dercan, was a pagan who rejected the true faith. Wanting to amuse himself at the expense of the Christians, he secretly ordered his servants to kill a dog, cut off its head and feet, and bury them. Then he had the flesh properly cooked so that it might pass as mutton and be served to Declan and his companions.

⁸² When the meal was prepared, the meat, along with bread and other food, was set before them. At that moment, Declan had fallen asleep, but his disciples woke him so that he might bless their meal. As he looked at the food, he said, “I see that this meat is connected with the work of the devil.” He then questioned the servants about the food—what kind it was and where it had come from. They answered, “Our master ordered us to kill a fat ram for you, and we have done as he commanded.” Declan responded, “Our Master is Jesus Christ—may He reveal to us what it is that links this food to the work of Satan and preserve His servants from eating what is forbidden.”

⁸³ As Declan spoke, he suddenly noticed a dog’s claw in the meat, for the servants, without realizing it, had boiled one quarter of the dog with its paw still attached, thinking they had buried all the incriminating parts. Declan exclaimed, “This is not the foot of a sheep but of a dog!” When the attendants heard this, they immediately went to their master and told him what had happened.

⁸⁴ Dercan then came to Declan, accepted the true faith, and received Baptism at his hands, dedicating himself and his descendants to Declan forever. Moreover, he gave his homestead to Declan, and his people were also baptized. After this, Dercan asked Declan to bless something within his homestead that might serve as a lasting memorial of him.

⁸⁵ Declan then blessed a bell that he noticed there, which was called Clog-Dhercain (“Dercan’s Bell”). He proclaimed, “I grant it this power: if the king of Decies carries it around when going into battle against his enemies or to uphold his rights, he will return safely and victorious.” This promise has often been fulfilled, but when proud men enter battle or conflict unjustly, even if they march around it, they do not achieve victory; instead, success remains with their enemies. The name of that homestead was Teach-Dhercain (“Dercan’s House”), but it is now called Coningean, named after the claw [con] of the aforementioned hound or dog. To this place came a gathering of holy men—Coman, Ultan, MacErc, Mocoba, and Maclaisren—who dedicated themselves to God and placed themselves under the spiritual guidance and authority of Declan.

⁸⁶ Declan then established a monastery in that place, namely in Coningean, and settled there this holy community along with an additional group of disciples. However, he took Ultan with him to the place where he was going.

⁸⁷ On another occasion, Declan visited Bregia, the ancestral land of his people before their expulsion. There, he was shown great honor by the king of Tara and the chieftains of Meath, who loved him, as his ancestors had come from their tribe and territory. That land was the heritage of his lineage, and Tara lay within it. Declan established a monastery of Canons there on land granted to him by the king, and the place took its name from him. He also left behind a relic, an illuminated book, and a renowned gospel that he always carried with him. The gospel is still preserved there with great reverence, and miracles are performed through it. After this, he returned to Munster.

⁸⁸ While traveling through Ossory, Declan sought shelter for the night in a certain village. However, not only did the villagers refuse to welcome him, but they also drove him away by force. In response, the saint prayed to God, invoking the words of Scripture: “Vengeance is mine; I will repay”. That very night, sixty of the villagers perished, with the exception of two men and ten women who had disapproved of their neighbors’ treatment of the saint.

⁸⁹ The next morning, these survivors humbly sought out Declan and recounted what had happened—though he already knew of their fate. They repented of their wrongdoing and granted him a suitable plot of land, where he established a monastery. He also secured another piece of land to serve as a burial site for the dead. The monastery became known as Cill Colm Dearg, named after Colm Dearg, a kind and holy man who was one of Declan’s disciples. Colm Dearg came from East Leinster, specifically from the Dál Meiscorb. Once Declan had completed the monastery, he returned to his homeland, the Déisi.

⁹⁰ One day, Declan arrived at a place called Ait-Breasail, but the villagers refused to let him enter. Not only that, but they also hid all their boats to prevent him from reaching his own island, for they despised him greatly. Yet, in recognition of the saint’s holiness and his patient prayers, God Almighty turned the sea into dry land, as has already been told.

⁹¹ That night, Declan was forced to take shelter in an empty stable out on the open plain, as the villagers did not even provide him with a fire. Because they lacked the compassion to offer warmth to a servant of God, divine justice came upon them. Fire fell from heaven, consuming them along with their homes and their entire village. Ever since, the place has remained a cursed wasteland, just as the prophet writes: “civitates eorum destruxisti”—“You have destroyed their cities.”

⁹² One day, while traveling through his own region—crossing Slieve Gua in the land of the Déisi—Saint Declan’s horse suddenly went lame and could go no further. Looking around, Declan noticed a herd of deer roaming nearby on the mountain. Turning to one of his companions, he said, “Go and bring me one of those deer to pull my chariot in place of my horse. Take this halter with you.”

⁹³ Without hesitation, the disciple obeyed. As he approached, the deer remained still, waiting for him. He selected the largest and strongest among them, led it back, and harnessed it to the chariot. The deer, calm and obedient, carried Bishop Declan with ease all the way to Magh Femhin. When they arrived at a lodging house, Declan unharnessed the stag and told it, “Go now, as is your nature.” At the saint’s command, and in full view of all present, the stag turned and retraced its path back to the mountain. The man who had brought the stag was named Dormanach. Declan blessed him and granted him a piece of land in the northern Déisi, near the Eóghanacht. His descendants still live there to this day.

⁹⁴ One day, while Saint Declan was traveling with his usual large company, one of his companions stumbled and fell, breaking his shinbone in two. Seeing the accident, Declan was moved with pity and instructed someone to bandage the man’s leg so that he would not suffer excessively or lose too much blood. However, the others recoiled in horror and said they could not bring themselves to tend to the wound.

⁹⁵ Among them, however, was a man named Daluadh. Stepping forward with confidence, he declared, “In the name of Christ and of our patron, Declan, I will be the surgeon for this foot.” He spoke in jest, but nonetheless, he carefully bandaged the injury and blessed it in the name of God and Saint Declan. To everyone’s amazement, the wound healed quickly, and all gave thanks to God.

⁹⁶ Then Declan turned to Daluadh and said, “You vowed to be the surgeon of that foot in Christ’s name and mine, and God has granted healing at your words. Because of this, you and your descendants will always possess the gift of healing. Whenever they practice medicine in God’s name and mine—with no hatred in their hearts and without excessive greed for a physician’s fee—God and I will grant relief.”

⁹⁷ And so it came to pass, just as Declan had promised, that Daluadh’s family carried on the healing tradition for generations.

⁹⁸ On another occasion, while Saint Declan was traveling through the northern part of Magh Femhin near the River Suir, he encountered a man carrying an infant to be baptized. Declan turned to his companions and said, “Wait here while I baptize that child,” for the Holy Spirit had revealed to him that the infant was destined to serve God.

⁹⁹ One of his attendants objected, saying they had neither a vessel nor salt for the baptism. But Declan replied, “We have a great vessel—the Suir—and God will provide the salt, for this child is destined for holiness and great deeds.” Then, Declan took a handful of earth and, praying silently in his heart, made the sign of the cross over it. Immediately, the soil was transformed into white, dry salt. Seeing this miracle, all who were present gave thanks to God and praised Declan.

¹⁰⁰ The child was baptized there and given the name Ciarán. Declan then instructed the family: “Raise my spiritual son with great care, and when the time is right, send him to be educated by a wise and holy teacher well-grounded in the faith. He will become a radiant pillar in the Church.”

¹⁰¹ This child, Ciarán mac Eochaidh, would go on to found a famous monastery, where he eventually entered into eternal life, as well as another monastic foundation. He performed many miracles and holy signs. His monastery, Tiprut (Tubrid), was located in the western part of the Decies in Uí Fhathaidh, between Slieve Grot (Galtee) and Slieve Cua, within the diocese of Saint Declan.

¹⁰² One day, a woman came to Saint Declan’s monastery, not far from the city where she lived. That day, as she had done many times before, she stole something—a habellum (possibly an offering or tribute). She took it and set off for home. As she traveled, she encountered a group of people on the road. Suddenly, before their eyes, the ground opened up and swallowed her. In terror, she threw the tabellum from her bosom, and it was immediately transformed into a stone. The travelers, witnessing the event, took the stone and brought it to Declan. Through divine vision, Declan had already seen all that had happened to the woman as punishment for her theft. Because of this miracle, his name was glorified, and a great fear came upon both those who were present and those who later heard of it. The stone remains to this day in Declan’s graveyard in Ardmore-Declain, where it stands on high ground as a lasting witness to this miracle.

¹⁰³ A wealthy man named Fintan was childless, as his wife had been barren for many years. In their longing for children, the couple traveled to Saint Declan and promised generous alms and good works if he would pray for them. They were certain that if Declan interceded on their behalf, God would grant them children. Moved by their faith, Declan prayed to God, blessed them, and said, “Return home, and by God’s grace, you will have children.”

¹⁰⁴ Filled with joy at his blessing and promise, Fintan and his wife returned home. That very night, Fintan lay with his wife, and she conceived. In time, she gave birth to twin sons, Fiacha and Aodh. Both they and their descendants remained devoted in service and tribute to God and Saint Declan.

¹⁰⁵ When it was revealed to a certain holy man—namely, Ailbe of Emly Iubar, the chief bishop of Munster—that his final days were near, he said to his disciples: “Beloved brothers, before I die, I wish to visit my dear friend and fellow laborer in Christ, Declan.”

¹⁰⁶ With that, Ailbe set out on his journey. At the same time, an angel of God appeared to Declan, informing him that Ailbe was coming to visit. Upon hearing this, Declan instructed his disciples to prepare the house for their guest’s arrival. Then, he himself went out to meet Ailbe at a place called Druim Luchtraidh [Luchluachra]. From there, they traveled together to Declan’s home, where Ailbe was received with great honor by Declan and his community. He remained there for fourteen joyful days.

¹⁰⁷ Afterward, the elderly saint returned to his own city—namely, Emly Iubar. Declan, along with many of his people, accompanied him as far as Druim Luchtraidh. There, Ailbe urged Declan to return to his own city. Both men knew that they would never see each other again in this life. As they parted, they wept bitterly, grieving their farewell. However, they also established an everlasting bond and covenant between their successors in that place. Ailbe blessed Declan’s city, his clergy, and his people, and Declan did the same for Ailbe. Finally, they embraced, sealing their love and peace with a kiss, and each returned to his own home.

¹⁰⁸ One day, the castle of Cinaedh, King of the Déisi, caught fire and burned fiercely. At that time, Declan was on his way to the castle on some business, and when he saw the flames, he was deeply grieved. Remembering the staff previously mentioned—the one used to part the sea—he threw it toward the castle. The staff miraculously flew through the air as if borne on heavenly wings and landed in the midst of the flames. At once, through the grace of God and the power of both the staff and Declan himself, the fire was extinguished on its own.

¹⁰⁹ Declan had cast the staff from a distance of about a mile away. When King Cinaedh and those present saw this astonishing miracle, they were filled with wonder and gave thanks to God and to Declan, once they learned that it was through him that this great work had been accomplished.

¹¹⁰ The castle stood near the River Suir, on its southern side. The place from which Declan cast the staff was beside a ford in the Suir or along a stream flowing near the monastery of Mag Laca [Molough], which had been built in honor of God by the holy virgins, daughters of the King of the Déisi. To this day, a pile of stones and a cross mark the spot where this miracle occurred.

¹¹¹ On another occasion, a foreign fleet approached Declan’s city with the intent to destroy it and plunder both its people and livestock. These invaders were hostile to the Christian faith. Many members of the community rushed to Declan, warning him of the approaching threat and pleading with him to call upon God for protection.

¹¹² Declan knew that among his followers, the holiest and most grace-filled was Ultan, whom we have mentioned before. He instructed Ultan to pray to God against the fleet. Moved by compassion for the Christian people, Ultan obeyed Declan’s command. He went out to meet the fleet, stretched out his left hand against it, and immediately, the sea swallowed the enemy ships as if they were sacks of lead. The drowned sailors were transformed into large rocks, which still stand near the mouth of the harbor to this day, rising visibly from the sea.

¹¹³ The Christians who witnessed this miracle rejoiced, giving praise and glory to God and to their patron, Declan, through whom this and many other miracles had been worked. However, a debate arose between Ultan and Declan over the credit for the miracle—Ultan attributed it to Declan, while Declan insisted it was Ultan’s doing. From that time on, a proverb has been known in Ireland: “The left hand of Ultan against you” when speaking of danger or peril. After Declan’s death, Ultan became a miracle-working abbot, leading many other holy monks.

¹¹⁴ The holy and illustrious archbishop, Patrick, sent one of his followers to Declan, granting him authority as his delegate. As he traveled through the southern region of the Déisi, he drowned in the River Lickey, about two miles from Declan’s city.

¹¹⁵ When Declan heard this, he was deeply saddened and said, “It pains me that a servant of God, sent by Patrick to visit me, should travel across all of Ireland only to perish in a river within my own land. Bring me my chariot at once, so I may go quickly to see his body. Patrick must know of the sorrow and distress I have endured because of his disciple’s death.”

¹¹⁶ Before Declan arrived, others who were nearby had already recovered the body and placed it on a bier to be taken to Ciaran for burial. Declan met them along the way and ordered them to lay the body down. They assumed he was about to recite the Office for the Dead. Approaching the bier, he lifted the cloth covering the man’s face, which was darkened and disfigured, as is common in cases of drowning. Declan prayed in silence, his tears falling, though no one could hear his words.

¹¹⁷ Then, he commanded, “In the name of the Trinity—of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, whose holy yoke I bear—rise, for God has restored your life to me.” At once, the man rose at Declan’s word and greeted him and all those present.

¹¹⁸ Declan and his followers welcomed him with great reverence. Though initially weak, like one recovering from illness, he gradually regained full strength. He remained with Declan for a time, and there was great rejoicing in Declan’s city over the miracle. News of it spread far and wide, and his name became known throughout the land.

¹¹⁹ This disciple of Patrick was named Ballin. He returned to Patrick with great joy and told him how Declan had raised him from the dead. He also shared his story with many others. When Patrick heard of the miracle in the presence of many witnesses, he gave glory and thanks to God, and Declan’s name was honored throughout the land.

¹²⁰ With this extraordinary miracle performed by Declan, we bring our account to a close. The number of miracles he worked—though not all are recorded here—can be understood from what we have written. We also want you to recognize that he healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, cleansed lepers, restored the ability to walk to the crippled, enabled the deaf to hear, and cured many different illnesses in various places across Ireland. These deeds are too numerous to include in full, as their sheer number would make for an exhausting account. For this reason, we have chosen to leave them unrecorded.

¹²¹ When Declan realized that his final days were near and that he had little time left, he summoned his spiritual son, MacLiag, who was residing in a monastery on the eastern side of the Decies near the border with Leinster. He wished to receive the Body and Blood of Christ and the Sacraments of the Church from him in his final moments.

¹²² Declan then foretold the day of his death to his disciples and instructed them to bring him back to his own city. At the time, he was not living there but in a small, revered cell he had ordered to be built between the hill known as Ardmore Declan and the ocean. This humble dwelling stood in a narrow place at the edge of the sea, beside a small, clear stream that flowed down from the hill above. Surrounded by trees and bushes, the place was called Dísert Declan.

¹²³ From there to the city was only a short mile, and Declan chose to go there to escape the noise and distractions, so he could devote himself to reading, prayer, and fasting. Even in that secluded place, however, it was difficult for him to find solitude, as crowds of disciples, the poor, pilgrims, and beggars followed him wherever he went.

¹²⁴ Declan was known for his generosity and deep compassion, and because of this, tradition holds that a great number of people, especially the needy, regularly accompanied him. Despite this, the small cell remained dear to him for its peace and solitude. Over time, many devout people have also chosen to live there, following his example.

¹²⁵ When Declan fell ill and grew weak in body—yet remained strong in hope, faith, and love for God—he returned to his own city, surrounded by his people, disciples, and clergy. He spoke to them about God’s commandments and urged them to live holy lives after his passing. He instructed them to be obedient to authority, to follow the path he had set for them as closely as possible, and to keep his city steadfast in piety and under religious order.

¹²⁶ When they heard his words, they were deeply grieved, for they understood that he knew he would soon depart from them and enter heaven. Yet, they found comfort in his gentle words. Then, at Declan’s request, the holy man MacLiag came to him, as previously mentioned. Declan received the Body and Blood of Christ and the Sacraments of the Church from MacLiag’s hands, surrounded by his disciples and other holy men. He blessed his people, his household, and the poor, embracing them as a sign of love and peace.

¹²⁷ Thus, after abolishing idolatry and its sacrifices, bringing countless souls to the true faith, establishing monasteries and religious orders in various places, and living his entire life in holiness and service to God, this glorious bishop was taken up by the angels to heaven on the ninth day of the Kalends of August. His body was blessed and honored with Masses and sacred hymns, offered by holy men, the people of the Déise, and his own monks and disciples, who had gathered from every direction at the time of his passing.

¹²⁸ He was laid to rest with great reverence in his own city—at Declan’s High-Place—in the tomb he had chosen under the guidance of an angel. From that time to this, his resting place has been a site of miracles and holy signs. He departed to the perfect unity of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, for ever and ever. In saecula saeculorum. Amen.