Orkney’s Lesser Known Saints

Orkney is well known for both Saint Magnus Erlendsson and Saint Rögnvald Kali Kolsson. However, digging into the annals of history reveals further saintly connections with Orkney.

Saint Dotto

Feast Day: 9th April

Saint Dotto was a sixth-century abbot whose influence significantly shaped the spiritual landscape of the Orkney Islands in Scotland. While details about his life are limited and questioned (not unexpectedly due to the date, around 502 AD), his legacy as a holy man and leader in the monastic community continues to inspire believers today.

Born in the circa early 6th century, Saint Dotto likely hailed from a noble family and exhibited a profound devotion to Christianity from a young age. His commitment to serving God and his fellow believers led him to dedicate his life to the monastic vocation.

The Seven Dolours of the B. V. Mary. (10) S. Dotto, Abb. in Orkney, 6th century.

The Catholic Directory for the Clergy and Laity in Scotland 1897 refers to 9th April as the day of devotion for Saint Dotto

Dotto became the abbot of a prominent monastery known as St. Duthac’s Abbey, which served as a centre for learning, prayer, and spiritual guidance. His leadership established the monastery as not only a hub for spiritual practices but also a place of intellectual and cultural exchange. Under Dotto’s guidance, the abbey attracted scholars, theologians, and artists, fostering a vibrant community that contributed to the overall development of the Orkney Islands, supposedly an Orkney island was even named after him for some time. This can be seen on a map of Orkney from 1627, just to the right of Flotta, around Scapa Beach:

In addition to his administrative role, Saint Dotto played a crucial part in spreading the Gospel amongst the local population. His preaching and evangelisation efforts brought many closer to God, encouraging them to live lives of holiness and virtue. His teachings emphasised prayer, simplicity, and charity, resonating deeply with his followers.

While actively engaging in the spiritual and cultural life of the islands, Dotto also prioritised personal prayer and contemplation. He recognised the importance of nurturing his spiritual growth, which in turn strengthened his ability to serve the community effectively. His commitment to God and deep spirituality served as a guiding light for both the monks under his care and the people of Orkney.

Saint Dotto passed away around the age of 100, leaving a lasting legacy of faith, wisdom, and devotion. His contributions to the monastic life in Orkney and his dedication to evangelisation earned him great respect amongst his contemporaries and later generations. His feast day is celebrated on April 9.

Although the formal canonisation process for Saint Dotto occurred before the establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, he is recognised as a saint within the Catholic tradition. His life serves as a testament to exemplary Christian leadership and the veneration he received amongst the faithful.

Saint Dotto remains a symbol of faith and an inspiration for all who seek a deeper relationship with God. His enduring legacy encourages believers to pursue holiness and embody the virtues he exemplified throughout his life.

Saint Conran, Bishop of Orkney

Feast Day: 14th February

Saint Conran of Orkney is a lesser-known figure in the early Christian history of the British Isles. His legacy, though not extensively documented, contributes to the rich tapestry of religious heritage in Orkney.

Saint Conran is believed to have been a bishop in Orkney during the early mediaeval period. His exact dates are unclear, but his life and work are typically placed within the context of the early spread of Christianity in Scotland. This period saw numerous missionaries and religious figures travelling through the British Isles, establishing churches and converting local populations.

As a bishop, Conran would have played a significant role in overseeing the Christian community in Orkney. His responsibilities likely included preaching, administering sacraments, and providing spiritual guidance to the local population. Bishops at this time were also instrumental in building and maintaining church infrastructure, which would have been crucial in the remote and scattered communities of Orkney.

Saint Conran’s veneration is primarily local, with his feast day celebrated on February 14th. While he may not be widely known outside of Orkney, his legacy is preserved in local tradition and the dedication of certain churches and ecclesiastical sites.

The impact of Saint Conran on Orkney’s religious history is reflective of the broader efforts to establish and solidify Christianity in the region. Figures like Conran were essential in the transition from paganism to Christianity, providing leadership and structure to the fledgling Christian communities.

Today, Saint Conran is remembered for his dedication to the Christian faith and his role in the early church of Orkney. His life, though not extensively recorded, remains an integral part of Orkney’s spiritual heritage, embodying the early missionary zeal that helped shape the religious landscape of the islands.

Saint Serf – Apostle of Orkney

Feast Day: 1st July

Saint Serf, sometimes known as Saint Serbán or Severanus, is a significant yet enigmatic figure in early Scottish Christianity. Despite being called the “apostle of Orkney,” his connections extend beyond these islands to various parts of Scotland and even into England. Indeed, it is possible he never even visited Orkney, despite this title. His feast day is April 20th being the Day of Devotion to Saint Severanus, Apostle of Orkney. We first found records of his connections to Orkney here.

According to David Hugh Farmer’s entry in The Oxford Dictionary of Saints (1978), the legend of Saint Serf is filled with improbable tales. He is traditionally believed to be the son of Eliud, King of Canaan, and Alphia, daughter of an Arabian king, born around 500 AD. This colourful lineage, however, is more legendary than historical.

As a young man, Serf is said to have served as Pope for seven years before travelling to Gaul (which includes modern-day France, Luxembourg, Belgium, Switzerland, northern Italy, and parts of the Netherlands and Germany). Eventually, he settled in Scotland. One account mentions Serf meeting Adomnán, the Abbot of Iona, who supposedly guided him to an island in Loch Leven. Here, Serf founded St Serf’s Inch Priory, where he stayed for seven years. The island, known as St Serf’s Inch, still bears his name.

The historical accuracy of this meeting is doubtful since Adomnán was born over 40 years after Serf’s reported death. Despite such inconsistencies, these stories highlight the deep reverence and significant impact Serf had on early Scottish Christianity.

Amongst the many legends surrounding Saint Serf, one of the most famous involves him slaying a dragon that terrorised the village of Dunning. This tale underscores his role as a protector and miracle worker. Dunning, which still exists today, grew around the former parish church dedicated to Saint Serf, built in the 12th or 13th century.

Another well-known story involves princess Teneu, the daughter of the King of Lothian. After becoming pregnant out of wedlock, Teneu was thrown from Traprain Law by her family but miraculously survived. She was carried across the Firth of Forth in a coracle to Culross, where Saint Serf took her in. He became the foster father of her son, Kentigern (also known as Mungo), who would later found the city of Glasgow and become its patron saint.

According to J.D. Wylie’s History of the Scottish Nation, Saint Serf died at Dunning on July 1st. His body was taken to Culross, where he was honourably buried with psalms and hymns. His feast day is celebrated on July 1st, and many churches in central Scotland, Fife, and Edinburgh are dedicated to him.

Saint Serf’s life, though interwoven with legend, remains a testament to his significant influence on Scottish religious history. His legacy continues to be celebrated, reflecting his enduring importance to the Christian heritage of the region.

Saint Olaf – The Patron Saint of Norway

Feast Day: 29th July

Saint Olaf II, also known as Olaf Haraldsson, holds a prominent place in both the history of Norway and the Christian heritage of Orkney. He is celebrated for his role in the spread of Christianity throughout Scandinavia and is venerated as the patron saint of Norway.

Olaf II was born around 995 AD. He was a descendant of Harald Fairhair, the first King of Norway, and his lineage tied him to a period of significant change and consolidation in Scandinavian history. His predecessor, Olaf I Tryggvason, also played a crucial role in the Christianisation of Norway, setting the stage for Olaf II’s efforts.

Olaf II became King of Norway in 1015. His reign was marked by a determined effort to solidify the Christian faith across his kingdom, often through forceful means. He built churches, established dioceses, and worked to integrate Norway more closely with the broader Christian world.

Olaf II’s commitment to Christianity led to his veneration after his death. He was killed in the Battle of Stiklestad in 1030 while attempting to reclaim his throne from Danish rule. His death was seen as a martyrdom for the faith, and miracles were reported at his graveside. Olaf was canonised by Pope Alexander III in 1164, making him a central figure in the Christianisation of Scandinavia. His feast day is celebrated on July 29th.

The influence of Saint Olaf extended beyond Norway to the Orkney Islands, reflecting the Norse cultural and political connections of the time. A small church dedicated to Saint Olaf once stood in Kirkwall, in what is now Saint Olaf’s Wynd. It is thought it is this church that gave Kirkwall, or Kirkjuvagar meaning Kirk on the Bay, its name. It was to this church that the bones of Saint Magnus were moved to, from Christ Church in Birsay. They were then moved again into the newly built Saint Magnus Cathedral. Christ Church in Birsay was later renamed Saint Magnus’ Church.

Today, another Saint Olaf’s Church continues to honour his legacy in Orkney, serving as a testament to his enduring spiritual influence.

Saint Olaf is revered not only for his efforts in spreading Christianity but also for his role in unifying and strengthening the kingdom of Norway. His legacy as a warrior king who championed the Christian faith has left an indelible mark on Norwegian identity and culture. As the patron saint of Norway, he remains a powerful symbol of the country’s Christian heritage and national unity. In Orkney, the parish of Kirkwall and Saint Ola most likely assumes its name from Saint Olaf.

Saint Columba and Saint Cormac

Feast Day of Saint Columba: 9th June
Feast Day of Saint Cormac: 21st June

Saint Columba

Saint Columba (521-597), also known as Colum Cille (Irish language for Colm of the Church), was one of the key figures in early Irish and Scottish Christianity and extended his influence to the Orkney Islands, a testament to his expansive missionary work. The legacy of his efforts in Orkney is still evident today, particularly through the historical presence of monastic communities on the islands of Papa Westray and Papa Stronsay.

Saint Columba’s missionary journeys brought him to the court of Brude, the King of the Picts. According to Saint Adomnán of Iona (627–704), in his work Vita Columbæ (Book 2, Chapter 43), Columba met with King Brude and the chief ruler of the Orkney Islands. During this meeting, Columba requested King Brude to ensure the safety of his brethren, particularly Saint Cormac Ua Liatháin, who was set to arrive in Orkney. This protection from the Pictish king allowed the early Christian missionaries to establish a presence in the Orkney Islands without facing hostility.

Saint Columba had many churches dedicated to him throughout Orkney over the years. In a contemporary sense, however, perhaps the most prominent dedication to him is in Saint Colm’s Day Centre in Kirkwall.

Saint Cormac Ua Liatháin

Cormac Ua Liatháin, a 6th-century Irish saint, is known from Adomnan of Iona’s Vita Columbae. Cormac is portrayed as a dedicated anchorite, seeking isolated islands to lead a life of prayer and solitude, and is recognised for founding monasteries. His endeavours are highlighted in three significant journeys described by Adomnan.

In his first attempt, Cormac sets sail from the district of Erris to find a secluded retreat but fails due to the presence of a monk travelling without his abbot’s permission. Columba, aware of this through prophecy, reveals that God thwarted Cormac’s quest for this reason. On his second venture, Cormac heads towards the sea again. Columba, foreseeing Cormac’s arrival in Orkney, requests King Bridei I of Pictland to ensure Cormac’s safety. The king complies, and Cormac is protected during his time in Orkney. During this period, Cormac’s fate is a topic of discussion amongst the monks at Iona. Columba, utilising his prophetic gift, tells them that Cormac will return to Iona that very day, a prediction that comes true. The narrative leaves some ambiguity regarding the length of Cormac’s stay in Orkney, suggesting he might have spent only a few months there or potentially returned after visiting Iona.

In his third journey, Cormac’s ship is driven far north by a strong southerly wind for fourteen days, where it is attacked by a swarm of frog-sized, flightless insects. In distress, Cormac prays for divine help, and Columba, spiritually sensing his trouble, gathers his monks to pray. Their prayers result in a change of wind direction, allowing Cormac to return south and eventually meet Columba again. Later, Cormac, along with Saints Cainnech, Comgall, and Brendan the Navigator, visits Columba on the island of Hinba, where Columba’s sanctity is affirmed when Brendan sees a ball of radiant fire over his head during mass.

Saint Berthamus of Kirkwall

Feast Day: April 6

Saint Berthamus, also known as St. Berthman or St. Berthem, served as a bishop of Kirkwall and is remembered for his significant contributions to the early Christian church in the region. He died in 839.

Saint Berthamus was a key figure in the Christianisation of the Orkney Islands during a period when the region was undergoing significant cultural and religious transformation. His tenure as bishop was marked by efforts to strengthen the faith amongst the local population, fostering a vibrant Christian community.

Described as being “filled with a heavenly sweetness,” Saint Berthamus was known for his gentle and compassionate demeanour. This quality endeared him to his followers and helped cultivate a spirit of kindness and love within his community. His leadership style emphasised humility and devotion, making him a respected and beloved figure amongst both clergy and laity.

Saint Berthamus died in 839, and his legacy continued to influence the church in Orkney for centuries. His contributions to the early church laid a foundation for future generations of Christian leaders.

Saint Tredwell

Feast Day: October 8

Saint Tredwell, also known as Triduana, holds a special place in the hearts of the Orkney people, particularly on the island of Papa Westray. As a Pictish maiden from the 4th or 5th century, she is celebrated for her devout faith and the legendary act of sacrificing her eyes to maintain her chastity. Tredwell’s story is one of profound spiritual resilience, making her a cherished figure in Orkney’s Christian heritage. Her connection to Papa Westray is immortalized through the remains of St Tredwell’s Chapel, a once-renowned pilgrimage centre.

St Tredwell’s Chapel, situated on a conical mound on a small peninsula in St Tredwell’s Loch, was a significant site for pilgrims seeking cures, especially for eye ailments. The chapel’s remains, which include late medieval walls built over Iron Age structures, signify its historical importance. These remnants feature a tunnel leading to a circular building or broch, hinting at the site’s ancient origins. The chapel’s thick walls and traces of intricate tracery work indicate it was a well-founded and crucial establishment in the religious landscape of Orkney.

In the 19th century, the Minister of Westray, John Armit, remarked on the deep veneration the locals had for Saint Tredwell. He noted that:

“Such was the veneration entertained by the inhabitants for this ancient saint, that it was with difficulty that the first Presbyterian minister of the parish could restrain them, of a Sunday morning, from paying their devotions at this ruin, previous to their attendance on public worship in the reformed church. Wonders, in the way of cure of bodily disease, are said to have been wrought by this saint, whose fame is now passed away and name almost forgotten.”

This highlights the enduring influence of Saint Tredwell well into modern times.

The chapel was surveyed by Sir Henry Dryden in 1870 when its walls, of variable thickness, were still up to six feet high, with an interior measuring 20 feet 3 inches by 13 feet 10 inches. Around 1880, William Traill cleared the chapel of rubble, discovering 30 copper coins dating between the reigns of Charles II and George III under the chapel floor, along with a female skeleton. Such findings underscore the chapel’s historical and archaeological significance.

In his 1983 work, “The Archaeological Sites and Monuments of Papa Westray and Westray,” R.G. Lamb documented William Traill’s discovery of a subterranean passage outside the west wall of the chapel. This passage, leading to a ‘circular building’ with various sets of door-checks and a side-chamber, is likely part of a complex of late Iron Age buildings upon which the chapel was constructed. This complex potentially includes a broch at its core and a revetment wall on its lower southeast slope. Nearby, the footings of two small subrectangular buildings of indeterminate date add to the site’s mystery. A cross-slab, reportedly seen in the deep waters beside the islet, was unsuccessfully recovered, further adding to the site’s enigmatic allure.

Saint Tredwell, or Triduana, is associated as a ‘holy virgin’ with Saint Boniface in a medieval account of a mission from Jarrow to Pictland in 710, invited by King Nechtan. Legend tells that Nechtan fell in love with Triduana and praised her beautiful eyes, to which she responded by plucking them out and sending them to him on a twig. Her miraculous cures, particularly for eye afflictions, drew pilgrims from all over Orkney and beyond. As noted by Marwick in 1925, John Brand’s “Brief Description of Orkney” (1700) provides insights into the chapel’s significance:

People used to come to it from other isles; before the chapel door was a heap of small stones, “into which the Superstituous People when they come, do cast a small stone or two for their offering, and some will cast in Money”; the loch is “held by the People as Medicinal”; “a Gentleman in the Countrey, who was much distressed with sore Eyes, went to this Loch and Washing there became sound and whole…with both which persons he who was Minister of the place for many years was well acquainted and told us that he saw them both before and after the Cure: The present minister of Westra told me that such as are able to walk use to go so many times about the Loch, as they think will perfect the cure before they make any use of the water, and that without speaking to any… not long since, he went to this Loch and found six so making their circuit…” “As for this Loch’s appearing like Blood, before any disaster befal the Royal Family, as some do report, we could find no ground to believe any such thing.

These practices and beliefs reflect the deep-rooted reverence for Saint Tredwell and her enduring legacy in Orkney.