Mochonna

Mochonna
Bishop, Saint
Born 7th century
Died 13 January 684(684-01-13)
Honored in Roman Catholicism
Feast 13 January

Saint Mochonna (7th century – January, 684), also known as Saint Conan, was the bishop of the Isle of Man and an Irish missionary.

Mochonna is not to be confused with St. Conindrius, who is said to have been a disciple of St. Patrick, and to have lived to be a very advanced age (d. 17 November 560).

The Bollandists place Saint Mochonna amongst the early bishops of Man, and Colgan gives an account of his life and labours. Unfortunately, the history of the Isle of Man in the fifth and sixth centuries is very obscure, and it is difficult to verify biographical details. However, Mochonna, who is also described as "Bishop of Inis-Patrick" left a distinct impression of his zeal for souls in Manxland. Some authorities give the date of his death as 26 January, but Colgan, quoting from the ancient Irish martyrologies, gives 13 January, on which day Mochonna's feast is observed.

There are also several minor Irish saints who share the name Conan, including Saint Conan of Assaroe (8 March), and Saint Conan of Ballinamore (26 April).

 This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domainHerbermann, Charles, ed (1913). Catholic Encyclopedia. Robert Appleton Company.