Sometimes, like with St. Francis of Assisi, God ordains a special friendship between His Saints and animals. St. Hugh of Lincoln, a monk of the 12th century, who later became bishop, was one of those saints. His holiness and kind nature attracted the birds and squirrels near his monastery. These otherwise timid creatures responded to his gentle voice, and came close to him without any fear. He liked to feed them right out of his hand while preparing his own meals.

Later on, when Hugh was Prior, he enjoyed the frequent company of a goose. She often came to see him in his cell, and also ate from his hand. For three years, she was a regular visitor, till it was time to hatch her eggs. Then she was away for a time. But when Hugh did see his dear goose again, the new mother brought all her little ones along behind her, much to the saint’s delight.

Of all the animals that Hugh befriended, there is one that stands out so strongly that it is depicted beside the saint in his images. It is large, grand swan, gifted to Hugh shortly after his consecration as Bishop of Lincoln.

To read more about the strong bond between the saint and the swan, be sure and read Lady Gwendolyn’s newest Scrapbook story "A Bishop’s Feathered Friend".