Today we remember and give
thanks for Boniface of Mainz, Missionary to the Germans. Boniface was born in
the late seventh century in England. He became a monk, and was ordained as a
presbyter in England,
where he was inspired by the example of others to become a missionary. Upon
receiving a papal commission in 719 to work in Germany,
Boniface devoted himself to planting, organizing, and reforming churches and
monasteries in Hesse, Thuringia, and Bavaria.
After becoming an archbishop, Boniface was assigned to the See of Mainz in 743.
Ten years later he resigned his position to engage in mission work in the Netherlands. On
June 5, 754, while awaiting a group of converts for confirmation, Boniface and
his companions were murdered by a band of pagans. Boniface is known as the
apostle and missionary to the Germans.
Collect of the Day:
Almighty God, You called Boniface to be a witness and martyr in
Germany, and by his labor and suffering You raised up a people for Your own
possession. Pour out Your Holy Spirit upon Your Church in every land, that by
the service and sacrifice of many Your holy name may be glorified and Your kingdom
enlarged; through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the
Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
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