Saint Aurea of Amiens

Biography

Saint Aurea of Amiens, also known as Aurea of Boves, was an eighth-century hermitess, nun, and abbess of the monastery of Saint-Martial in Amiens, Gaul (modern France). Born in the early eighth century, not much is known about her early life or family background. Aurea dedicated her life to God's service and chose a life of solitude as a hermitess. She settled in a hermitage in Boves, France, where she lived a life of intense prayer, fasting, and contemplation. It was during this time that she became friends with another holy woman, Saint Ulfia, who also resided in the hermitage at Boves. The extraordinary holiness and spiritual insight of Aurea came to the attention of her contemporaries, and her reputation spread throughout the region. She attracted many spiritual seekers and those seeking her guidance, and her wise counsel became greatly sought after. Aurea's profound spirituality and devotion inspired those around her to persevere in their own spiritual journeys. After some time, Aurea was called by God to a communal life and entered the monastery of Saint-Martial in Amiens. Her dedication and piety led her to be elected as the abbess of the monastery, a position she held for many years. As the abbess, she led the community with wisdom and love, making the monastery a place of prayer, study, and sanctity. Aurea's life exemplified the virtues of humility, charity, and self-sacrifice. She was revered not only for her spiritual insights but also for her compassionate care for the poor and the sick. Aurea's devotion to serving others and her deep spiritual connection earned her the respect and admiration of her fellow nuns and the wider community. Although there are no specific representations or symbols associated with Saint Aurea, her unwavering faith and commitment to God remain an inspiration for many. Her feast day is celebrated on October 5th in the Diocese of Amiens, France. After her death, the head of Saint Aurea was enshrined in the Cistercian abbey of the Paraclete in Boves, France, in 1630. Her memory and holiness continue to be venerated by those who visit the abbey. While not officially recognized as a patron saint for any particular cause or group, Saint Aurea of Amiens is revered for her holiness and serves as a model of faith, devotion, and selflessness. Her life serves as a reminder of the transformative power of God's grace and the potential of each individual to pursue a life of holiness and service. Though she lived in relative obscurity during her time, her spiritual legacy lives on, inspiring countless seekers of God throughout the ages.