Saint Radegonde of Celles

Biography

Saint Radegonde of Celles, also known as Radegonde of Chelles, was a remarkable figure in the early days of Christianity. Born around 673, little is known about her early life except that she was the goddaughter of Saint Bathilde. Bathilde, who was the queen of the Franks and a devout Christian, took Radegonde under her care and helped raise her in the monastery of Chelles. Tragically, Radegonde passed away a few days before Bathilde's own death. However, Radegonde's short life left a lasting impact on those around her, and devotion for both Bathilde and the holy little girl began to grow. People were moved by Radegonde's remarkable innocence and piety, and they started to honor her as well. Radegonde's representation is not mentioned in historical records, suggesting that there is no specific imagery associated with her. However, her spiritual influence and significance are evident in the tales and devotion that surround her. In her final resting place, Radegonde was laid to rest in the abbey church of Santa Cross at Chelles Abbey. In 833, her relics were transferred to the church of Our Lady of Chelles, where they were united with those of Saint Bathilde. This act solidified the bond between the two, further enhancing their joint veneration. Although Saint Radegonde of Celles is not formally recognized as a patron saint for any particular cause or group, her story can serve as an inspiration to all who hold dear the importance of innocence, piety, and devotion. Though canonization as we know it today did not exist during Radegonde's time, she is considered a saint in the Catholic Church. The Pre-Congregation designation indicates that she was venerated as a saint in the early centuries of Christianity, before the formal canonization process was established. On the liturgical calendar, Saint Radegonde of Celles is celebrated on January 28th each year. This feast day allows devotees to remember and reflect on the significance of this young girl's life and her spiritual connection to Saint Bathilde. Saint Radegonde of Celles is a testament to the power of faith in the face of tragedy and the enduring impact of innocent souls. While her story may be short, the devotion and veneration she inspires serve as a reminder of the profound influence that even the most humble among us can have on the world.