Saint Althryda

Biography

Saint Althryda, also known as Alfrida, Altrida, and Etheldrytha, was born a princess, the daughter of King Offa of Mercia. She lived during the 8th and 9th centuries, in a time when Christianity was flourishing in the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of England. As a princess, Althryda was raised in a royal household and enjoyed a privileged upbringing. However, her life took a different turn when she was betrothed to Saint Ethelbert, a pious and virtuous man. They had great admiration and respect for each other, and their marriage was intended to further strengthen the ties between the royal families of Mercia and East Anglia. Sadly, Saint Ethelbert's life was cut short, and after his untimely death, Althryda made a decision that would shape the rest of her life. She chose to retire from the world and dedicate her life to God. Seeking solace and a deeper spiritual connection, she withdrew to Croyland Abbey, where she embraced a life of seclusion and became a hermitess. As a hermitess, Althryda devoted herself to prayer, contemplation, and penance. She dedicated each day to seeking God's presence and understanding His will. While her life may have seemed solitary and removed from society, she was highly respected by the people of Croyland Abbey and the surrounding areas. They sought her counsel and guidance, believing her to possess a special closeness to God. Saint Althryda lived a life of devotion until her passing in the year 834. She died a natural death, having spent her final years in complete devotion to God. Although specific details about her representation, patronages, or the miracles associated with her remain unknown, her sanctity and hermitage at Croyland Abbey were renowned. The official recognition of Saint Althryda's sainthood occurred in the pre-congregation era, a time before the formal canonization process was established. Her cult and veneration were passed down through generations, with people holding her in high esteem for her commitment to a life of piety and retreat from worldly affairs. Today, Saint Althryda is remembered and honored on her feast day, which falls on May 20th. Her example of choosing a life of prayer, abstinence, and withdrawal from societal pursuits continues to inspire believers to seek a deeper connection with God and strive for holiness in their own lives.