MEMORIAL: APRIL 21
St. Anselm of Canterbury was born in the 12th century to noble parents. He attempted to enter the monastery at the age of 15, but was prevented from doing so. After 12 years of trying to figure out his vocation and eventually entered the monastery at the age of 27.
Anselm was known for his academic distinction and made his monastery a place of study for theological and philosophical thought. He wrote many works including his most famous, ‘Cur Deus Homo’ (Why God Became Man). At the age of 60, Anselm was named Archbishop of Canterbury. In his efforts to reform the Church in England especially in regards to slavery, Anslem would go into exile multiple times to escape the displeasure of the kings. Anslem would eventually return to England and would die in peace just shy of 80 years old. He was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in the 18th century.
