Saint Fothad

Saint Fothad, also known as Fothad Na Canoine ("of the canon") was an Irish monk and saint who lived in Fahan-Mura monastery during the late 8th century. He moved quickly up to the rank of bard. He then became a counsellor to the Ard Righ (High King of Ireland) of the time, Aedh Oirnidh (ruled 794-814 AD).

He both challenged and supported the king, using his renowned intelligence to write a remonstrance against the King's policy of drafting clergymen, and taking part in his military crusades. One such crusade, against the Leinstermen, had led to a greater veneration of Fothad amongst Irish Catholics. He also edited the "Felire", an encyclopedia of saints compiled by another Irish saint, Saint Aengus.