Saint Imina of Würzburg

Biography

Saint Ida of Boulogne, also known as Ida of Lorraine, Ida of Lower Lorraine, Ida of Verdun, and Ide, was born in 1040 in Ardennes, France. She was the daughter of Duke Godfrey IV of Lorraine, and being a descendant of Blessed Charlemagne, she came from a noble lineage. At the age of 17, Ida married Count Eustace II of Boulogne. Together, they had two sons, Godfrey and Baldwin de Bouillon. Unfortunately, Ida became a widow after the death of her husband. After the loss of her husband, Ida dedicated her life to serving God and the Church. She became an oblate at the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Vaast in Arras, where she embraced the monastic life. As an oblate, Ida committed herself to prayer, asceticism, and charitable works. Ida's devotion to the Church extended beyond her personal spiritual practice. She also used her wealth and influence to endow several monasteries in Picardy, which is part of modern-day France. These monastic establishments became centers of prayer, education, and community support, positively impacting the lives of countless individuals. As a widowed mother, Ida understood the struggles and challenges that widows face. Therefore, she became a patron saint for widows, interceding for them and providing solace and comfort in their times of need. Her own experience as a widow informed her empathy and compassion for these vulnerable members of society. Saint Ida of Boulogne lived a life of deep faith, devotion, and service. She remained faithful to God until her death on April 13, 1113. She passed away peacefully, succumbing to natural causes. Each year, on her feast day, April 13th, the Catholic Church honors her memory and celebrates her life of holiness. Her legacy endures through her patronage of widows and her contributions to the monastic life. Saint Ida of Boulogne continues to inspire believers to find solace in their hardships and to dedicate their lives to the service of God and others.