June 5th - St. Boniface By: Catherine Tenny

St. Boniface was born as "Wynfrid" in Wessex, England during 672 AD. He was well educated and became a Benedictine monk, being ordained priest at  age 30. His first attempt at a missionary career had failed, but for his second attempt, in 718, he succeeded. Gregory II changed Wynfrid's name to Boniface. In 719, Boniface returned to Frisia to assist Bishop Willibrod in his missionary activities. He built a monastery in Hesse in 722. His success was so great that he was called to Rome and consecrated as a missionary Bishop. For 10 years Boniface converted Pagans and renewed the faith of Christians who had been converted by Irish missionaries. He met opposition several times but would not get angered. He was great at handling missionaries whose methods he deplored, showing his calm temperament. St. Boniface was martyred when a group of Frisians attacked him while he was reading scriptures to the newly converted Christians on Pentecost Sunday, June 5th, 754 AD.

INTERCESSORY PRAYER

St. Boniface, you taught the people about God and his grace. You were resilient to adversary. Through your intercession, help me to know and be strong in my faith, Guide me on the path that leads to God, and help me to stay strong even when scorned, Amen.