Saint Piran (or Pyran), a Cornish abbot, thought to be born in Ireland, was a powerful preacher and evangelist. After reprimanding King Aengus for his infidelity, the King, in his anger, chained Piran to a milestone and threw him off a cliff. Miraculously that stone brought him to Cornwell, where he brought the faith to the people. It’s said that he discovered tin metal. Today Cornwell’s flag is a white cross (the reflection of tin) on black ground, symbolizing Christ’s light overcoming darkness. St. Piran is the oldest Catholic church in Britain. On March 5, processions and plays are celebrated in his honor.
