Boniface of Mainz
An English Benedictine monk who was a leading figure in the Anglo-Saxon mission to the Germanic parts of the Frankish Empire during the 8th century.
- Early Middle Ages
- United Kingdom
- Feast day June 5
- c. 675 – 754
- Apostle
- Martyr
- Bishop
- Priest
- Monk
- Missionary
Saint Boniface (c. 675 – June 5, 754), born Wynfrid or Wynfrith, was an Anglo-Saxon Benedictine monk and missionary to Germania, known as the 'Apostle of the Germans'. Ordained a priest in England, he traveled to Frisia in 716, and then to Rome, where Pope Gregory II entrusted him with the evangelization of Germania. He was appointed bishop and later Archbishop of Mainz. He is famous for felling Thor's Oak (or Donar's Oak) in Geismar, a tree sacred to pagans, an act symbolizing the beginning of the Christianization of the region. He established numerous churches and monasteries, including the renowned Fulda Abbey. He was martyred in Frisia in 754 along with his companions during a mission.