The flame of faith needs faithful hands to carry it from one generation to the next. Saint Honorius of Canterbury helped nurture Christianity in England when the Church was still young and its future uncertain.

A monk from Rome and the fifth Archbishop of Canterbury, Honorius continued the work begun by Saint Augustine. He sent Saint Felix to preach in East Anglia and consecrated Saint Ithamar of Rochester, the first native English bishop. Through his ministry, the growing Church began to raise its own shepherds.

Honorius died in 653, leaving an enduring example of patient service. His story reminds us that quiet faithfulness can bear fruit long after our earthly lives have ended.

Saint Honorius of Canterbury, pray to God for us.