Saint Adalsindis of Bèze

Biography

Saint Adalsindis of Bèze, also known as Adalsainde, Adalseinde, Adalsind, and Adalsinda, was born in the year 610 in the area of Dijon, in the kingdom of Burgundy, which is located in modern-day France. She was the daughter of Duke Almagar and Duchess Aquilina, who belonged to the Burgundian nobility. Adalsindis had a brother named Waldalenus, who later became a saint as well. Adalsindis was deeply devout from a young age and felt a strong calling to dedicate her life to serving God. She made the decision to join the Benedictine order and became a nun, seeking a life of prayer and contemplation. Her brother Waldalenus, also drawn to a religious vocation, became a monk and later rose to prominence as the abbot of the Abbey of Bèze. Under the guidance and supervision of her brother, Adalsindis was appointed as the abbess of a convent near Bèze. She took on this role with great humility and wisdom, setting an example for the other nuns under her care. Adalsindis was known for her deep spirituality, her commitment to the Benedictine Rule, and her unwavering dedication to her faith. Throughout her life, Adalsindis devoted herself to various spiritual practices, including rigorous prayer, fasting, and acts of charity towards the poor and needy. Her exemplary virtues and holy lifestyle inspired those around her and earned her a reputation for sanctity. Saint Adalsindis lived a long and fruitful life, always striving to pursue a deeper union with God. She passed away in the year 680, dying of natural causes. Her death was mourned by the community of monks and nuns who had been blessed by her presence and guidance. In recognition of her holy life and the impact she had on others, Saint Adalsindis was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, though the exact date of her canonization is unclear due to it occurring before the official establishment of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Nevertheless, her sanctity and virtuous example have been celebrated for centuries. Today, Saint Adalsindis is remembered and honored on May 3rd by the Diocese of Langres in France. While she does not have a specific patronage assigned to her, her life serves as an inspiration to all who seek to grow closer to God through a life of prayer, dedication, and humility.