Saint Lawrence O’Toole was born around 1128 in County Kildare, Ireland. His father was the chief of Hy Murray, and his mother came from the O’Byrne clan. When Lawrence was only ten, he was handed over as a hostage to King Mac Murehad of Leinster. The king treated him so harshly that his father insisted he be transferred to the care of the Bishop of Glendalough.

Lawrence grew into a young man known for his deep faith and strong character. At just 25, he was chosen to succeed the Bishop of Glendalough as abbot after the bishop’s death. He led the monastery with wisdom and virtue, and in 1161 he was unanimously selected to become the Archbishop of Dublin.

In 1171, Lawrence traveled to meet King Henry II of England to address matters concerning his diocese. During Mass, as he approached the altar, a mentally disturbed man attacked him. Many believed he had been fatally injured, but Lawrence regained consciousness, asked for water, blessed it, and placed it on his wound. The bleeding stopped immediately, and he continued celebrating the Mass.

St. Lawrence became widely admired for his devotion, generosity, and ability to mediate disputes. His reputation as a wise and compassionate leader earned him great respect.

He died on November 14, 1180, in Eu, Normandy, and was declared a saint in 1225 by Pope Honorius III.