Saint Sithney was a sub-Roman Celtic hegumen who lived during the sixth century. Originally from Ireland, he was part of a group of monks who traveled to western Cornwall and Brittany. He is associated with several monastic traditions, including time spent at Inis Mor and Saighir. Following his service in Ireland, he relocated to Brittany, where he established a significant presence. He died in 529 in Guissény, and his legacy remains tied to both the Cornish and Breton regions.
Life and travels
Born in Munster, Sithney was the son of Erc and Magna. He studied under Senán mac Geirrcinn and traveled to Inis Mor to assist with the monastery there. He later served at the abbey in Saighir before eventually moving to Brittany. Some traditions suggest he was once a deaf and mute boy who regained his speech through a blessing, subsequently gaining the gift of prophecy.
Veneration and legacy
The saint is the patron of Sithney in Cornwall and is traditionally invoked for protection against rabies and mad dogs. In Brittany, he was venerated at Guissény and other locations. According to local folklore, he chose to be the patron of mad dogs rather than the patron of girls seeking husbands. His remains were recorded as being kept in the church at Sithney in the late fifteenth century.