Saint Hildegard of Bingen is celebrated by the Catholic Church for her profound spirituality, holiness, and numerous gifts. She was truly a Renaissance woman of her time.
In his Apostolic Letter proclaiming Saint Hildegard of Bingen a Doctor of the Church, Pope Benedict XVI said,
“In Saint Hildegard of Bingen there is a wonderful harmony between teaching and daily life. In her, the search for God’s will in the imitation of Christ was expressed in the constant practice of virtue, which she exercised with supreme generosity and which she nourished from biblical, liturgical and patristic roots in the light of the Rule of Saint Benedict. Her persevering practice of obedience, simplicity, charity and hospitality was especially visible. In her desire to belong completely to the Lord, this Benedictine Abbess was able to bring together rare human gifts, keen intelligence, and an ability to penetrate heavenly realities.”
Her life and legacy continues to serve as an inspiration for many.
Here are six things every Catholic should know about the incredible Saint Hildegard of Bingen, followed by a special prayer for her intercession:
1. Born in Germany, Saint Hildegard of Bingen was a 12th-century visionary and mystic.
2. She experienced divine visions from God throughout her life.
3. She became a Benedictine nun at the Monastery of Saint Disibodenberg.
4. She is known for her spiritual writings and musical talents. She wrote many poems, books, songs, and even a play!
5. She studied natural sciences and was a pharmacist. Many of her writings included advice on healing and natural medicine.
6. She is a Doctor of the Church and one of only four women with this title.
Here is a special prayer for the intercession of Saint Hildegard of Bingen:
Father, Source of Life, you have bestowed on St Hildegard of Bingen many excellent graces.
Help us to follow her example of meditating on your ineffable Majesty and to follow you so that we, amidst the darkness of this world, recognize the Light of your clarity to cling to you without fail.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Amen.