St Ebbe was a Northumbrian royal who due to the dynastic struggles went into exile in Scotland where she became a Christian. When her brother Oswy became king of Northumbria she returned from exile and founded a monastery at Ebchester and also at St Abb’s head near Coldingham, both double monasteries. She was a great teacher and trained St Ethelburga, future founder of Ely, for the monastic life. Unfortunately she had problems enforcing discipline on the royal members of the community. One of the members of the community witnessed St Cuthbert’s regime of prayer standing in the sea with arms outstretched while reciting the psalms.
Saint Ebbe Virgin
Reposed 683 Remembered August 25
