Mél and his brothers Melchu, Munis and Rioch accompanied their uncle Patrick to Ireland and helped him with his missionary work there.

Acting upon the apostolic precept, Mél supported himself by working with his hands; what he gained beyond bare necessities, he gave to the poor.

Mél lived with his aunt, Lupait, on her farm during a portion of his ministry, and rumour spread that their relationship was of a scandalous nature.

The crozier is now kept in a darkened bronze reliquary that was once decorated with gilt and coloured stones[7] which was burned in the 2009 fire that destroyed the cathedral.

Traditions include sending yourself a Saint Mél's Day card and for people to host parties for their single friends.