Saint Fiacc was a 5th-century Irish poet and the chief bishop of Leinster. Born to a prince of the Uí Bairrche and a sister of the Chief Ollam of Ireland, he was trained in the bardic tradition by his uncle. Following the arrival of Saint Patrick in the region, Fiacc was chosen to serve as the dedicated bishop for the converts of Leinster. He was noted for his rapid acquisition of learning and eventually established significant religious foundations in the province.
Life and ministry
After being consecrated by Patrick, Fiacc founded the church of Domnach-Fiech. He later moved to Sletty, where he established a large monastery and served as its abbot while continuing his duties as bishop. He was known for an austere lifestyle, including a rigorous annual Lenten fast. To assist with his travels during illness, Patrick provided him with a chariot and horses to help him visit his diocese.
Legacy and veneration
Fiacc is traditionally credited with writing the earliest metrical biography of Saint Patrick in Irish. He is commemorated as a saint with a feast day on 12 October. He was buried at Sletty alongside his son, Fiacre, who was also a priest. The two are occasionally honored together in various church calendars.