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Feast Day: April 20
Blessed Hildegun of Schönau, also known as Joseph, Brother Joseph, Hildegun of Neuss, Hildegunda, Hildegunde, Hildegund, or Ildegonda, was a remarkable figure who lived during the 12th century. She was born in the Rhineland region of Germany, although specific details about her birth and early life remain unknown.
One significant event in Hildegun's life occurred when she disguised herself as a boy in order to ensure her own safety during a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Accompanying her father on this sacred journey, Hildegun experienced the awe-inspiring religious sites of the Holy Land. Upon returning to her homeland, she decided to maintain her male attire and joined the Cistercian monks at Schönau, a monastery located in Germany.
Living the rest of her life as a brother within the Cistercian order, Hildegun became known for her extraordinary piety and devotion to her faith. Legend holds that she possessed the power to work miracles, although it was only after her death that her assigned gender was revealed. It is worth noting that Hildegun's story stands out among other tales with similar themes of disguise and gender roles due to the robust and convincing documentation provided by her own religious order.
Blessed Hildegun of Schönau passed away in 1188 in Schönau, Germany, succumbing to natural causes. Despite her significant contributions to the Cistercian monks at Schönau, her official representation or depiction remains unknown.
Her feast day is celebrated on April 20th, allowing the Catholic faithful to honor her memory and seek her intercession. While Hildegun has not been officially venerated or beatified by the Catholic Church, her life and story continue to inspire those who believe in the power of faith, sacrifice, and the pursuit of holiness.