November 14: Saint Lawrence O’Toole

St. Lawrence O'Tool
Christ Church Cathedral
Dublin, Ireland
Photo by Andreas F. Borchert

History

Lawrence was a holy young man. He became the abbot of a monastery when he was only 25 years old and eventually became the archbishop of Dublin, Ireland. While celebrating Mass once, a crazed man struck him on the head, knocking him out. Everybody thought Saint Lawrence would surely die, but he woke up. He asked for some water, blessed it and washed out the wound with it. Immediately, his head stopped bleeding and he was able to complete the Mass. Lawrence often was able to prevent wars by convincing kings to negotiate for peace. 

Activity

To keep himself humble, Saint Lawrence O’Toole wore a hair shirt – a sort of itchy undershirt that would keep him from getting too comfortable and remind him to trust the Lord and pray. Would a hair shirt help you, too? You can find out by wearing a pair of wool socks, a string of wool tied around your wrist or ankle, or something else that itches. Every time you feel the itch, say a prayer!

SPECIAL NOTE: Last year, the heart of St. Lawrence O’Toole (which had been preserved in a metal heart-shaped box) was stolen from Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin. It has not yet been recovered. Please pray for the relic’s safe and prompt return.

Saint Lawrence O’Toole, pray for us!

More reading for parents: 

Catholic Encyclopedia

Catholic Online