Saint Reinildis of Saintes

Biography

Saint Reinildis of Saintes, also known as Reinildis of Condacum, Reinildis of Kontich, Rainelde, Raineldis, Reinaldes, Reineldis, or Reinhild, was born in the year 630 in her father's house in Kontich, Belgium. She belonged to the nobility and was the daughter of Saint Amalburga and Duke Witger of Lorraine. Reinildis was blessed to be the sister of two other saints, Saint Gudula of Brussels and Saint Emebert of Cambrai. Reinildis grew up in a devout family, and her mother played a crucial role in teaching her the ways of the faith. As she matured, Reinildis felt a deep desire to dedicate her entire life to God. Motivated by this calling, she made private vows and decided to give away her possessions to the abbey of Lobbes. She resided in the abbey for two years, immersing herself in prayer and contemplation. After her time at the abbey, Reinildis embarked on a pilgrimage to the Holy Lands, seeking a deeper connection to her faith. During her journey, she collected numerous relics, which she brought back with her to Belgium. These relics served as a tangible sign of her devotion and her desire to spread the Gospel. Upon her return, Reinildis settled in Saintes, Belgium, where she chose to live as a hermitess. In this holy vocation, she dedicated herself to a life of solitude, prayer, and penance. Reinildis embraced a rigorous asceticism, seeking to detach herself from worldly desires and to draw closer to God. Unfortunately, the tranquility of Reinildis' hermitage was disrupted by the invasion of pagan Frisian warriors. These invaders sought to destroy the Christian faith and the lives of its adherents. Reinildis, unwavering in her commitment to Christ, fearlessly confronted these pagans, boldly proclaiming her allegiance to the Lord. In her unwavering faith, Reinildis became a martyr for the Christian cause. She was brutally beheaded outside a chapel in Saintes, Belgium, around the year 700. The exact location of her martyrdom is believed to be the site where the parish church of Sainte-Reinildis stands today. This church enshrines her precious relics, which serve as a testament to her deep faith and powerful witness. Saint Reinildis is particularly venerated as the patron saint against eye diseases and festering wounds. Her intercession is sought especially by those suffering from eye ailments, as the water from a nearby well in Saintes is believed to possess curative properties for such afflictions. Throughout the centuries, many have attested to the miraculous healing power associated with this well, leading to the patronage of Saint Reinildis for those suffering from eye diseases. Saint Reinildis of Saintes, although living in relative obscurity as a hermitess, demonstrated deep courage and unswerving dedication to her faith. She remains an inspiration to all Christians, reminding us of the importance of living our lives in a manner that reflects our love and commitment to God. Her unwavering faith and ultimate sacrifice remind us of the preciousness of our own faith and the value of staying true to our beliefs, regardless of the challenges we may face. Saint Reinildis serves as a powerful intercessor for those seeking healing and guidance in their own spiritual journeys. May her example continue to inspire and guide all those who turn to her in times of need.