Werenfried was an 8th-century English Benedictine monk and missionary who played a significant role in converting the Frisians to Christianity. Likely born in Northumbria, he spent time in Ireland before joining Saint Willibrord to preach the gospel in the territory of Betuwe. He is credited with establishing the faith in several locations, including Elst and Westervoort. After his death, his remains were transported by boat along the Rhine to his final resting place in Elst, an event commemorated in local heraldry.