Saint Brendan of Birr, also known as St. Brendan the Elder, was one of the 12 Apostles of Ireland. He was one of the early Irish monastic saints and was considered as one of the chief prophets of Ireland.
He studied at the monastic school at Clonard Abbey under St. Finian. He became a monk and later on founded a monastery, where he served as the abbot. He was known for his sanctity and spirituality.
He also attended the synod of Meltown wherein he helped defend St. Columba during the trial. Due to his assistance, St. Columba received a more lenient sentence. They eventually developed a friendship which led to the connections between Birr and the Columban foundations.
