Blessed Ela Of Lacock

Biography

Blessed Ela of Lacock, also known as Ela of Laycock, Ela of Salisbury, or Ella, was born in 1187 in Amesbury, Wiltshire, England. She was the daughter of William FitzPatrick, 2nd Earl of Salisbury, and Eléonore de Vitré. As a member of the English nobility, Ela enjoyed a privileged upbringing and received a comprehensive education.

In her youth, Ela married William Longespée, who was the half-brother of both King Richard I and King John. The couple had a blessed union and were blessed with at least eight children. Tragically, Ela was widowed on 7 March 1226 when William passed away.

Following her husband's death, Ela took on the responsibilities of High Sheriff of Wiltshire, a position traditionally held by her husband. She diligently fulfilled her duties in this role for two years, displaying strength and intelligence in the administration of justice and maintaining the peace.

In 1229, inspired by her deep faith and desire to serve and support the Church, Ela founded two important religious establishments in England. The first was a Carthusian house in Hinton, which became a place of prayer and contemplation for the monks dedicated to a life of solitude and asceticism.

The second foundation was the Augustinian convent at Lacock. Here, Ela provided a nurturing environment for the women who desired a life of religious devotion and service. Under her guidance and patronage, the convent thrived and became renowned for its adherence to the Augustinian rule.

In 1238, Ela decided to withdraw from her status in the world and embarked on a personal spiritual journey. She entered the convent at Lacock, taking the vows of a nun. Ela's deep piety and dedication to a life of prayer and devotion made her an exemplary member of the religious community.

In 1240, she was elected as the abbess of Lacock Abbey, where she served until 1257. Ela's leadership skills and commitment to the well-being of the community were evident during her tenure as abbess. She governed with wisdom and compassion, strengthening the religious life and ensuring the spiritual and material needs of the nuns were met.

As she grew older, Ela faced increasing challenges due to declining health. Recognizing her limitations, she gracefully stepped down from her position as abbess in 1257. However, her withdrawal from official duties did not diminish her commitment to a life of prayer and contemplation. Ela remained a devout and dedicated sister, offering her prayers and intercession for the needs of the Church and the world.

Blessed Ela of Lacock passed away on 24 August 1261 at Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire, England, due to natural causes. She was buried at Lacock Abbey, where her memory has been cherished throughout the centuries.

Although she has not been formally canonized, Ela of Lacock is venerated for her holy life and her contributions to the religious communities she established. Her feast day is celebrated on 1 February, a date historically observed at Lacock, England until the dissolution of the monasteries.

The life of Blessed Ela of Lacock serves as an inspiration for her selfless dedication to serving God and her fellow human beings. Her commitment to prayer, contemplation, and the formation of religious communities continues to resonate and impact the faithful to this day. May her memory be a source of encouragement and her intercession a powerful means of grace for all who turn to her in prayer.