Saint Conal was a fifth-century bishop from Ireland who presided over the church at Drum in County Roscommon. He was the brother of Attracta, a woman who reportedly predicted that the episcopal status of his church and that of St. Dachonna would eventually decline due to the rise of a prominent new monastic institution. Following his leadership, the location of his church was renamed Drumconnell to honor his memory.
Life and legacy
Living during the latter half of the fifth century, Conal oversaw the see of Drum. His sister's prophecy regarding the loss of episcopal importance for his region was later realized when the Cistercian Abbey of Boyle was established in 1148. Conal passed away around the year 500, leaving a lasting impact on the local ecclesiastical landscape.
Veneration
The saint is commemorated on several dates depending on the tradition. While some sources suggest his feast day falls on 9 February or 22 May, others observe his feast on 18 March.