St Sigebert was king of East Anglia, the first king to be baptised and the first to abdicate and become a hermit. His actions payed an important part in the establishment of the church in his kingdom as well as strengthening ties with the other new Christian kingdoms, particularly those of Kent and Northumbria. He also welcomed St Felix and St Fursey to preach the Gospel. When the pagan army of Mercia invaded he refused the call to arms, was dragged onto the battlefield carrying only a staff and was killed. He was accorded the honour of martyrdom.
Saint Sigebert Martyr
Reposed 634 Remembered January 16
