Saint Hortolana of Assisi

Biography

Saint Hortolana of Assisi, also known as Hortolane, Hortulana, or Ortulana, was born in Assisi, Italy, in the early 12th century. Little is known about her early life, but she came from a noble and wealthy family. She was married to Count Faverone of Sciffi and together they had two daughters, Saint Agnes of Assisi and Saint Clare of Assisi. Hortolana was known for her deep faith and devotion to God, which she instilled in her daughters from a young age. She played a crucial role in their spiritual formation and encouraged them to lead lives dedicated to the service of God. After the death of her husband, Hortolana, along with her daughters, embarked on a pilgrimage to various holy sites in Europe, including Rome and Santiago de Compostela. They also undertook a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, where they walked in the footsteps of Jesus, deepening their spiritual connection and strengthening their faith. Upon returning to Assisi, Hortolana and her daughters felt called to a life of poverty and prayer. They became members of the Order of the Poor Ladies, which later came to be known as the Order of Saint Clare or the Poor Clares. They lived in the San Damiano Abbey, a small convent outside of Assisi. Hortolana embraced the life of a Poor Clare nun wholeheartedly, dedicating herself to prayer, contemplation, and serving others. She lived a simple and humble life, renouncing worldly possessions and embracing a life of poverty. In the convent, she nurtured and guided her daughters as they grew in their religious vocations. Hortolana's devotion to God and her exemplary life of holiness inspired many others in Assisi. She became a beloved figure in the community, known for her humility, kindness, and wisdom. Her steadfast faith and unwavering commitment to God made her a source of strength and encouragement for her fellow sisters in the monastery. Saint Hortolana passed away around the year 1238 in Assisi, leaving behind a beautiful legacy of faith, love, and devotion to God. Her feast day is celebrated on the 2nd of January, though it is also recognized on the 5th of January in some calendars and on the 18th of August on others. Although Saint Hortolana does not have any official patronages attributed to her, she continues to be revered as a model of motherhood, faith, and dedication to God. Her life serves as an inspiration to all who seek to deepen their relationship with God and follow the path of holiness.