Saint Boniface is traditionally called the Apostle of Germany.
Boniface was born Wynfreth in the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex around 675. A Benedictine monk and missionary, he traveled to the continent and worked among Germanic peoples during the 8th century. Pope Gregory II consecrated him a bishop in 722 and gave him authority to organize missionary efforts in German lands.
Later, Boniface became archbishop of Mainz and helped establish or reform monasteries, including the monastery at Fulda. Medieval accounts connect him with the felling of Donar’s Oak, a sacred tree associated with pagan worship, though details of the story come from later sources.
Boniface was killed with companions at Dokkum in Frisia in 754. He is honored as a martyr and remains a patron of Germany, the Netherlands, and brewers. His feast day is June 5.