Background

Driven from England during his youth, Edward spent years in exile in Normandy before returning to become king in 1042. Later accounts tell that he had vowed to travel to Rome, but as king he could not leave his people; instead, the pope released him from the pilgrimage on the condition that he build or restore a monastery dedicated to Saint Peter. Edward rebuilt and endowed the Benedictine abbey at Westminster, whose church was consecrated in 1065, shortly before his death. His promise took lasting form in a place of prayer that became his shrine and a center of English Christian life. Edward’s story invites us to keep faith with our commitments while serving the people entrusted to our care.

About This Film

Before Westminster Abbey, there was a promise. This short film tells the story of St. Edward the Confessor, his years in exile, and the vow he fulfilled by rebuilding a monastery dedicated to St. Peter.

Feast day: October 13.

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