Birinus was a 7th-century Frankish missionary and bishop who is recognized as the apostle to the West Saxons. Arriving in the kingdom of Wessex around 634, he successfully converted King Cynegils to Christianity, which facilitated political alliances with other Christian rulers. He served as the first Bishop of Dorchester, establishing numerous churches throughout the region. His work laid the foundation for the Christian faith in the West Saxon territory, where he remained active until his death in Dorchester on 3 December.