Munchin the Wise

Saint Munchin the Wise, also called Mainchin, is regarded as the patron of the city of Limerick in Ireland and, according to tradition, its first bishop. He lived toward the end of the sixth century.

Tradition says that he was the son of Setna, of the Dal Cais, and that he was raised by Saint Mac Creiche. King Ferdomnach is said to have granted him land on the island of Inis Sibtond, where he founded the church that stood at the beginning of the city of Limerick. He is also honoured as patron of Bruree.

The beginnings of his veneration at Limerick cannot be proved before the twelfth century, so some dating remains uncertain. He is a saint of the undivided Church, commemorated on 2 January (new style); the Martyrology of Donegal lists him on 29 December.