Saint Edward was born in 1003, the son of the Duke of Normandy and the nephew of King Edmund Ironside of England. At the age of ten, when the Danes seized control of England, he went into exile in Normandy. This early experience of loss, combined with his deep religious devotion, led him to renounce worldly ambitions and dedicate his life to the love of God.

Following the death of the Danish king Canute in 1042, Edward was called to assume the English throne, which he accepted dutifully, reigning until 1066. Known for his saintly demeanor, he became a beloved ruler. Among his notable acts were the abolition of an unjust tax and his reputed ability to heal people through his touch.

Although he had vowed to live in chastity, Edward agreed to marry for the good of his kingdom, yet he and his queen lived together in celibacy, as brother and sister. He had also vowed to make a pilgrimage to the tomb of Saint Peter, but, unwilling to leave his subjects vulnerable, the pope commuted this vow to the rebuilding of Saint Peter’s Abbey in Westminster. Edward was buried there a week after its dedication.

He passed away on January 5, 1066, and was canonized by Pope Alexander III in 1161.