During the 6th century, St. David was responsible for forming several monasteries, in particular his abbey in Wales. This abbey was known for hard, physical labor while working in silence. The development of a joyous spirit was emphasized as they worked in silence, surviving only on bread, water, and the vegetables they grew. Even on his death-bed, he encouraged his monks to remain joyful in the Lord, no matter what their physical state in life.

St. David is considered the patron saint of Wales and poets. He is depicted most often with a dove sitting upon his shoulder. This picture represents the legend that a dove landed while he was speaking as the ground. As the dove pulled him up, the ground beneath him elevated him above the crowd so that he could be heard by everyone in attendance.