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7th-century bishop who introduced Christianity to the East Angles

Felix of Burgundy

Felix of Burgundy

Felix of Burgundy was a 7th-century bishop who served as the first prelate for the East Angles. Originally from the Frankish kingdom of Burgundy, he was sent to the region around 630 by Archbishop Honorius of Canterbury to assist King Sigeberht. He is credited with introducing the Christian faith to the East Anglian people and establishing a school for teaching literacy. He held his episcopal see at Dommoc for seventeen years before his death in 647 or 648.

Life and ministry

Statue of Saint Felix at Norwich Cathedral
Statue of Saint Felix at Norwich Cathedral
Felix of Burgundy
Felix of Burgundy
2 images

Born in Burgundy, Felix may have been a priest associated with Irish missionary activity in Francia. After arriving in East Anglia, he established his seat at Dommoc, which scholars often identify as Dunwich. During his seventeen-year tenure, he worked closely with King Sigeberht to spread religious teachings and promote education through the founding of a school for boys.

Veneration and legacy

The late medieval parish church in Babingley, Norfolk, one of three East Anglian churches dedicated to the saint
The late medieval parish church in Babingley, Norfolk, one of three East Anglian churches dedicated to the saint
St Felix's Church in Felixkirk, Yorkshire, dating to the 12th century
St Felix's Church in Felixkirk, Yorkshire, dating to the 12th century
2 images

Following his death on 8 March, his remains were moved from Dommoc to Soham Abbey and later to Ramsey Abbey. He is recognized as a saint in Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox traditions. His memory is preserved through several English churches dedicated to him, and his feast day is observed annually on 8 March.

In 17 languages

Редакція Factograf · Published October 23, 2026 · Partly based on Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source article