Saint of the Day – 30 March – Blessed Dodone of Haske O.Praem.(1231) Hermit, Stigmatist

Saint of the Day – 30 March – Blessed Dodone of Haske O.Praem.(1231) Monk, Hermit, Peace-Maker, Stigmatist. Born in Friesland (in modern Netherlands and died on 30 March 1231 at Haskerdijken, Friesland of injuries sustained when his Hermitage collapsed while Dodone was in prayer inside. Patronage – of Haske, Netherlands.Also known as – Dodone of Hanske, Dodone of Haskerdijken, Dodone of Asch, Dodon… Dodo…

Dodone was born in Friesland, in modern-day Netherlands. After the death of his father, Dodone was compelled into an arranged marriage for the betterment of his family. However, after a few years, he felt a strong calling to devote his life to God and entered the Premonstratensian Abbey of Mariôngaarde (Garden of Mary), located near the town of Hallum in Friesland. Upon entering the Abbey, Dodone’s wife and mother both chose to pursue religious life too, joining a nearby Convent.

Dodone himself spent a period of time practising penance and living in seclusion at Bakkeveen in Friesland. However, his reputation for holiness began to grow and his hermitage soon became a destination for many seeking spiritual guidance and individuals in the hope of miraculous cures.

During his time at Bakkeveen, Dodone also dedicated himself to preaching to the Frisians, urging them to renounce their ongoing vengeful feuds and vendettas. He tirelessly worked to assist those who had been injured in the conflicts, offering support and encouraging forgiveness and reconciliation among the people.

In his later years, Dodone chose to retire and live in solitude as a prayerful Hermit at Haskerdijken, another Town in Friesland. It was there, on 30 March 1231 that a tragic incident occurred while Dodone was engrossed in prayer inside his Hermitage. The structure collapsed, resulting in fatal injuries to Dodone.

Immediately following his death, the Stigmata appeared on his body. The grave of Blessed Dodone became a site of veneration and in honour of his memory, the Church and Premonstratensian House of Our Lady of Rosendaal, were constructed over his final resting place. Pilgrims began to flock to the Shrine, seeking holy consolation and miraculous cures. Many reportedmiracles and blessings attributed to Dodone’s intercession.

Although Dodone has not been officially Beatified, the faithful continue to regard him as a Saint and pray for his intercession. His life stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to God and his tireless efforts to bring peace and reconcilation to the fractured community of the Frisians during his time.