John was born at Harpham, Yorkshire, England. He studied under Adrian at
St. Theodore's School in Kent, and on his returen to his native land, became
a monk at Whitby. He was named bishop of Hexham in 687 and then transferred
to York as metropolitan in 705, succeeding St. Bosa. John was known for his
holiness, his preference for the contemplative life, and his miracles, many
of which are recounted in Bede's Ecclesiastical History, the author of which
he had ordained. In ill health, John resigned the bishopric of York in 717
and retired to Beverly Abbey, which he had founded, and remained there until
his death on May 7. His shrine was for centuries one of the most popular
pilgrim centers in England. He was canonized by Pope Benedict IX in 1037.
His feast day is May 7.
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