Blessed Helen Enselmini

Biography

Blessed Helen Enselmini, also known as Elena Enselmini, was born in Padua, Italy. She was an exceptional individual who displayed great devotion to her faith from a young age. At the tender age of 12, she made the life-changing decision to become a Poor Clare nun, dedicating herself to a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

Helen's commitment to her religious vocation was made evident when she received the veil from none other than Saint Francis of Assisi himself at Arcella. This extraordinary encounter with such a revered saint served as a pivotal moment in her spiritual journey.

One remarkable aspect of Helen's life was her gift of inedia, which is the ability to live solely off the Eucharist for extended periods. Helen's deep faith and reliance on the Eucharist allowed her to sustain herself without any physical sustenance for months. This unique gift demonstrated her unwavering trust in God's providence and her complete dependency on Him.

As Helen progressed into adulthood, her health began to deteriorate, impacting her severely. By the time of her death in 1242, she had become both blind and mute, suffering from these physical afflictions.

Blessed Helen Enselmini's life exemplified profound humility, self-denial, and devotion to God. Her dedication to her religious calling and her ability to sustain herself through the Eucharist serve as powerful examples of faith and trust in divine providence.

Blessed Helen Enselmini's feast day is celebrated on November 4th, commemorating the day of her death. Her extraordinary life and virtuous example earned her beatification on October 29, 1695, by Pope Leo X and Pope Innocent XII, who confirmed her cultus, or public veneration.

Throughout the years, Blessed Helen Enselmini's spiritual influence has continued to uplift and inspire many faithful believers. She remains an enduring figure whose life serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and devotion to God.