Finn Barr, St

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Finn Barr, St (d. c.623). Bishop of Cork. After a reported pilgrimage to Rome, Finn Barr lived as a hermit by Lake Gougane Barra. Attracting numerous followers, he established the monastery of Etargabail, renowned for its school and centre of his cult. More famous was his foundation around which the city of Cork developed and where he is buried. He is believed to have been the first bishop of Cork (c.600). According to legend, a vision of Christ prevented Pope Gregory from consecrating Finn Barr in Rome, since he was reserved for direct divine consecration with holy oil in Ireland. Another story alleges that the sun did not set for fifteen days after his death.

Audrey MacDonald

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