Saint Adeltrude of Aurillac

Biography

Saint Adeltrude of Aurillac, also known as Adaltrude of Aurillac, was a countess, born around the year 830 in France. She is best known as the mother of Saint Gerald of Aurillac, who became a saint himself and is revered as the patron saint of the disabled and bachelors. Adeltrude was married to Count Gerard of Aurillac, and together they had several children, including Gerald. She lived during a time when Christianity was still growing and developing in Europe, and she played a significant role in fostering a strong Christian faith within her family. Adeltrude was known for her piety and devotion to the Catholic faith. She instilled in her children a deep reverence for God and a commitment to living virtuous lives. Through her own example, she showed them the importance of prayer, charity, and kindness toward others. One of Adeltrude's most notable qualities was her humility. Despite her position as a countess, she lived a simple and humble life, always prioritizing the needs of others. She was known for her generosity, constantly giving to the poor and those in need. Adeltrude passed away around the year 879, leaving behind a legacy of faith and love. Her devotion to God and her integral role in nurturing the Christian faith within her family left a lasting impact on her son, Saint Gerald. His journey towards sainthood was greatly influenced by Adeltrude's teachings and example. Although Adeltrude has not been officially recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church, she is honored and revered by many for her virtuous life and the impact she had on her son's spiritual journey. Her feast day is celebrated on November 14th, allowing people to reflect on her life and strive to emulate her virtues. While there is limited information available about Adeltrude's specific patronage, her life serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, humility, and selflessness in our own journeys towards holiness.