Blessed Isfrid Of Ratzeburg

Biography

Blessed Isfrid of Ratzeburg, also known as Isfried or Isfrido, was born around the year 1115 in Germany. He dedicated his life to the service of the Catholic Church and is revered as a faithful Premonstratensian canon.

Isfrid began his religious journey as a member of the Cappenenberg monastery in Westphalia, an area in modern-day Germany. As a Premonstratensian canon, he followed the teachings and disciplines of the Premonstratensian Order, which emphasized a simple and austere way of life.

In 1159, Isfrid was appointed as the provost of the Premonstratensian house of Jerichow. He served in this capacity for several years until his appointment as the Bishop of Ratzeburg in 1180. Isfrid faithfully fulfilled his duties as bishop for an impressive period of 24 years, during which he continued to live by the Premonstratensian rule, embodying the virtues of humility and self-discipline.

Blessed Isfrid was particularly known for his efforts to bring the Wends, a Slavic people, to Christianity. He dedicated himself to evangelization and worked tirelessly to spread the teachings of the Catholic faith among the Wends, helping them embrace Christianity.

Isfrid's devotion extended beyond his pastoral work. When the monastery of Floreffe in modern-day Belgium was tragically destroyed by fire, he played a crucial role in its restoration. Additionally, Isfrid's commitment to his mission led him to construct numerous churches throughout the region, providing places of worship and spiritual support for the faithful.

The life of Blessed Isfrid is punctuated by accounts of miracles attributed to his intercession. It is said that he possessed the power to transform water into wine when needed and that he once healed a blind man by reciting Scripture over him, a testament to his deep faith and connection to God.

Blessed Isfrid peacefully passed away on 15th June 1204, in Ratzeburg, Holstein, Germany, due to natural causes. He was buried in the choir of the cathedral in Ratzeburg, a fitting resting place for a devoted servant of the Church.

His sanctity was recognized by Pope Benedict XIII, who beatified him on 20th March and 12th April 1728, confirming the cultus of Blessed Isfrid. Today, he is venerated as a holy figure, particularly on his feast days, which are celebrated on 15th June and 17th February in the Diocese of Osnabrück, Germany, and the Archdiocese of Hamburg, Germany.

The life of Blessed Isfrid of Ratzeburg serves as an inspiration to all who seek a life of devotion, simplicity, and service to others. His unwavering faith and dedication to spreading the Gospel continue to be an example for Catholics worldwide.