Saint Edith of Caëstre

Biography

Saint Edith of Caëstre, also known as Edith of Cassel, Edith of Flanders, and Edith of Mercia, was born in the 9th century in Mercia, England. She was the daughter of King Genolfo of Mercia and had two sisters, Saint Sabina and Saint Elfrida. Coming from a royal family, Edith lived a life of privilege and luxury. However, Edith's life took a significant turn when she embraced Christianity. Moved by the teachings of the faith, she renounced the marriage that her father had arranged for her and decided to embark on a pilgrimage to Rome, Italy, along with her sisters. During their journey, the three sisters arrived in Cassel, Flanders and sought shelter with a group of religious sisters. Unfortunately, their arrival did not go unnoticed, and word reached the rejected suitors who held deep resentment towards the sisters for spurning their proposals. Tragically, the sisters' refusal to marry these men led to their untimely and brutal deaths. Men, hired by the vengeful suitors, attacked and murdered the three sisters in a forested area near Cassel or Caëstre in Flanders. Their martyrdom was a direct consequence of their conversion to Christianity, and they were recognized as martyrs for their unwavering faith. Following their deaths, the Chapel of the Three Virgins was built at the site of their murder. This chapel soon became a place of pilgrimage for the faithful, who sought the intercession and blessings from these holy martyrs. Numerous miracles were reported to have occurred at the chapel, solidifying the sisters' reputation for holiness. Saint Edith of Caëstre, together with her sisters, was canonized as a saint by the Pre-Congregation. Their feast day is celebrated on December 8th, honoring their ultimate sacrifice and devotion to their faith. Additionally, a procession in their honor occurs on the first Sunday of July, where the faithful come together to pay homage to these martyrs. While there is limited information available regarding Saint Edith's specific attributes or representations, her incredible story of faith and martyrdom serves as an inspiration to believers worldwide. She remains a revered figure in Catholicism, reminding us of the ultimate price paid by those who fearlessly devote themselves to the teachings of Christ.