Bede the Venerable

(673-May 25, 735). Monk, priest, theologian, chronologist, and historian. He was born in Northumbria and at the age of seven was entrusted into the charge of Benedict Biscop at St. Peter's monastery at Wearmouth. Later he moved to St. Paul's monastery at Jarrow where he spent the rest of his life. He was ordained deacon at nineteen and priest at thirty. His Ecclesiastical History of the English People is his major work. It is especially significant in recording the conversion of Celtic Christianity to Roman Christianity. This book is a primary source for the period 597 to 731 in English history. On Nov. 13, 1899, Pope Leo XIII declared him a Doctor of the Church. His ministry is commemorated in the Episcopal calendar of the church year on May 25.