WHO’S SAINT BOMBADIL?

In many communities of Christian Tradition, schools are tied to beatified persons in one way or another. Thousands of schools are named after saints.

A great school was recently launched named after Saint Constantine; the founders are amazing educators and their vision is admirable.

A little knowledge of St. Constantine’s life might give one some misgivings for his qualifications as a beacon to guide us. Of course Christ is the person who we desire to become more and more like. But if we had to pick a stepping-stone, someone between one’s granddad and Jesus, the person who best fits the bill is Tom Bombadil (for those of you familiar with JRR Tolkien’s works).

Here is a man who seems to have passed through such a deep education and fascinating adventure that his little abode transcends the dark and trembling events around him. Possibly the oldest resident in Middle Earth, his most obvious characteristic is his mirth. His home seems to radiate productivity and gratitude. He is puts the Ring on and it doesn’t faze him. The scope of his interest and experience swallows up the little regional power plays. He is post-political and firmly grounded in a joyful identity.

If ever there were a person who displays the fruit of a life of gumption, it is Tom Bombadil, so we have chosen him as our patron saint.

To read the chapter on Tom Bombadil, Click Here

If you are suspicious of saints or mythical men who live in the woods or if you are simply not familiar with the Lord of the Rings series and Tom Bombadil, table the concept for now and maybe some day it will come back and make sense. Or maybe not.