Blessed Stilla Of Abenberg

Biography

Blessed Stilla of Abenberg, also known as Stilla of Franconia, was born into the noble Abenberg family in the early 12th century in Abenberg, which was part of the diocese of Eichstátt in Bavaria, Germany. She was one of five children, born to the Count of Abenberg.

From an early age, Stilla displayed a strong devotion to God and a desire to serve Him. She entered religious life and lived as a nun alongside two other women, possibly her sisters, in Abenberg. The exact date of her entry into the monastery is unknown, but it is believed to have been during her youth.

Blessed Stilla's greatest achievement was the founding of the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Abenberg. This church served as the nucleus for the eventual establishment of the Monastery of Marienburg, although Stilla did not live to witness its completion. The monastery was built based on her plans and dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Stilla embraced a life of contemplation, dedicating herself to prayer, meditation, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. She embodied the virtues of humility, obedience, and purity of heart as expected of a nun. Blessed Stilla's deep spirituality and unwavering faith marked her as a holy woman, drawing the admiration and respect of those around her.

Traditionally depicted as a nun, Blessed Stilla is often represented holding a church or abbey to symbolize her role in establishing the Church of Saints Peter and Paul. She is also portrayed with a lily, which signifies her purity and devotion. Additionally, her depiction sometimes includes elements of princess clothing, representing her noble lineage.

Blessed Stilla passed away around the year 1145 in Abenberg, the place of her birth and spiritual labor. Her death was attributed to natural causes. She was buried in the church of Saints Peter and Paul in Abenberg, where some of her relics remain enshrined. Other relics are housed within the parish church and the cathedral of Eichstátt, further reflecting her widespread veneration.

Having lived a life of holiness and revered by the local faithful, Blessed Stilla of Abenberg was beatified on January 12, 1927, by Pope Pius XI. Her beatification confirmed her cultus, recognizing the enduring devotion and intercession of the Blessed in the lives of those who sought her help.

Blessed Stilla's legacy lives on through her founding of the Church of Saints Peter and Paul and the subsequent establishment of the Monastery of Marienburg. Her unwavering commitment to God, her virtuous example, and her deep spirituality continue to inspire believers to this day. Though much of her life remains shrouded in mystery, her memory is cherished by those who seek solace and inspiration in her saintly intercession.